IT may seem strange that I come so sudden∣ly
to end this Session, therefore before I
give my assent to the Bils, I will tell you the
cause, though I must avow I ow an account
of my actions to none but God alone. It is
known to every one that a while ago the
House of Commons gave me a Remon∣strance,
how acceptable every man may
judge, and for the merit of it I will not call
that in question, for I am sure no wise man
can justifie it.

Now since I am certainly informed that a
second Remonstrance is preparing for me, to
take away my profit of Tunnage and Poundage
(one of the chief maintenances of the Crown)
by alleadging that I have given away my
right thereof, by my Answer to your Peti∣tion.

This is so prejudicial to me, as I am forced
Page 117
to end this Session some few hours before I
meant it, being willing not to receive any
more Remonstrances, to which I must give
an harsh answer.

And since I see that even the House of Com∣mons
begins already to make false constructi∣ons
of what I granted in your Petition, lest it
be worse interpreted in the Country, I will
now make a Declaration concerning the true
intent thereof.

The Profession of both Houses, in the time
of hammering this Petition, was no waies to
trench upon my Prerogative, saying, They had
neither intention, nor power to hurt it.

Therefore it must needs be conceived that
I have granted no new, but onely confirm the
ancient Libertie of my Subjects. Yet to shew
the clearness of my intentions, that I neither
repent nor mean to recede from any thing I
promised you, I do here declare, That those
things which have been done, whereby men
had cause to suspect the Liberty of the Subject
to be trencht upon (which indeed was the
true and first ground of the Petition) shall not
hereafter be drawn into example for your
prejudice; and in time to come (in the
word of a King) you shall not have the like
cause to complain.

But as for Tonnage and Poundage, it is a
thing I cannot want, and was never intended
Page 118
by you to ask, never meant (I am sure) by
me to grant.

To conclude, I command you all that are
here, to take notice of what I have spoken at
this time, to be the true intent and meaning of
what I granted you in your Petition; But espe∣cially
you my Lords the Judges, for to you
onely under me belongs the interpretation of
the Laws, for none of the Houses of Parlia∣ment
joynt, or separate, (what new doctrine
soever may be raised) have any power, either
to make, or declare a Law without my con∣sent.

This Session were enacted these Laws, and first of all,

For further Reformation of Divers abuses committed on the
Lords day, commonly called Sunday.

2. To restrain the passing or sending any to be Popishly bred
beyond Seas.

3. For the better suppressing unlicensed Ale-House Kee∣pers.

4. For continuance and Repeal of divers Statutes.

5. For the establishing of the Estates of the Tenants of
Brumfield and Yale, in the County of Denbigh, and of the
Tenures, Rents and services thereupon reserved, according to a
late composition made for the same with the King then Prince of
Wales.

6 For the confirmation of the Subsidies granted by the
Clergy.

7. For the grant of five intire Subsidies, granted by the
Temporality.

There was a Design in the King to lay it up under deck, amongst o∣ther
Page 119
Crimes fit for Star-chamber Censure; that when the State
should have been at leasure, their Charter might have paid for all,
and I know the Attorney Generall had Order in these.

In Iuly dies Doctor Preston; an excellent Preacher,* of whom
something hath been said in the Historie of the Church, which con∣cludes
his Character, A subtile Disputant and great Polititian, having
large parts, of sufficient Receipt to mannage the broad Seal, which, if
the Condition had pleased, was proffered unto him; and might have been
the Dukes right hand (Or rather lesse then his little finger) who
despairing of being Patriarch of the Presbyterian party, used the Duke
no longer: Excellent parts (no doubt) he had; His pieces are in
Print; His Posthumus, And his Pupil left nothing unsaid of his
life, to give him merit, and eternall memory.

Somewhat must be said as to his Politiques: He was esteemed
indeed a proper Patron for the Puritan Presbyter, which now got
head to prick up: And all the Plot was to bring him in, for∣sooth,
to make the Duke in that Ministery, which they durst in∣trust
to his Management: And first, to appear aloof (the manner
of Court observers) his addresse must be to the Dukes Confi∣dent,
rhe Earl of Holland, made easie to him by favour of that fa∣mily:
But yet a Remembrancer was thought upon to move by
the by, a dependant of that Lords, who in truth dealt Ingeni∣ously;
Intimating to the Duke, Doctor Prestons power and in∣terest
with the Presbyters in that time, more necessary to be sought
unto, then to be put by; To which the Duke answered with an
Oath, The King knows him too well, and hath no good opinion of
him. If so (replied the Other) and already known, the advan∣tage
the better, to make alike use of him; so they did. In
which truly the Dukes head was not too easie for the Doctors;
for in shew he was carressed to undo him, which wrought the ef∣fects;
suspected of his own followers, lest he should be, not onely
besprinkled, but drencht in Court Holy-water. And in very
earnest, somewhat tainted he was, and tempted with ambitious
hopes, and (if I may speak it) himself was brought to accept
it. But it was very necessary for him, to undeceive his Disci∣ples,
and there to intrust One, in whom Obedience and Blindnesse
met together; A being made to do as he was bidden. To him
the Doctor writes a Letter under hand to be communicated onely
unto special friends, wherein to blazon himself, he relates what he
thought fitting to be believed, more to his own glory, and dispa∣ragement
of the weaknesse of Court wits (as he stiled them) then
many vain men might be thought to imagine. That, not enough, he
vents therein his own policy, working upon the witlesse Statists at
Court, bestowing on each of them by Name such characters as he
conceived would caresse his Pupils; with a Stanza or two, short and
Satyrical. This Letter sealed was found in Smithfield broken o∣pen,
Page 120
and carried to the Duke; But by a noble friend of his, hand∣somly
descried to him, How witty he was in Rhimes; and bidden
to look about him: Of which when he had but a hint, He clapt
his hand on his heart, and confessed he was undone.

But his party, to procure their Patrons peace of minde, and to
silence such a Witnesse, they dealt subtilly indeed; down-right
Bribes, to the Dukes Barber, to finger the Letter out of the Dukes
pocket, and so being brought to the Doctor, to bury the oblo∣quie▪
before his death, not much time after. This I say, to shew
how partially Mens pens put down private Actions which they
guesse at: Other such I could unravel. And for this with the
Testimony to boot of a Person, then his disciple, and since, of
that eminency in honour and justice as we shall fail to finde out
his example.

Sithence the return home of the second unfortunate Fleet,* de∣signed
to relieve Rochel, this whole vacation took up the time,
with those ships and others appointed for a fresh Expedition thi∣ther;
The most accomplished Armado that was set out by Eng∣land.
And the Duke designed himself to be the General Com∣mander,
once more to give adventure for the fatal effects, or final
end to their languishing misery. And because the Earl of Marl∣borough
had been a dull and unactive Treasurer for raising mo∣ney
to the Exchequer; he was removed to be President of the Pri∣vy
Counsel. And Sr Richard Weston, lately created Baron, sup∣posed
more solid for the weight of that Staffe! And in truth the
King was put upon it to seek for such men, whose abilities might
recover him from the hazzard and defection he was fallen into,
both in his Purse and power; He for the one, and Sr. Thomas Went∣worth
of the North was made a Lord ready for the next Session
to sit with the Peers. He had been too heavy against Preroga∣tive,
and this was a way to bring them in for the King.

The Fleet now in readinesse; the King draws down his Guests
of Progresse towards Portsmouth where the Ships were, and from
thence to dis-embogue. The Town so full of Gallants, and so pe∣stered
with lodgings that the King kept aloof, and made his Court
four miles distant. The Duke very diligent to hasten his designe,
treating daily with the Commissioners of Rochel and Soubize, in
Portsmouth, with his Duchesse and Family, when He took his last
leave of this life.

And because the Historian is much mistaken in relation of the
Dukes Murder, I shall ingeniously and truly (not upon surmize or
Hear-say) resolve all the particular.

That fatall morning the three and twentieth of August the
Duke having fitted himself to wait upon the King,* he hastily
called for Breakfast. His servants attending the sewer to bring
in the meat; the Duke came down stairs from his upper ChamberPage 121
to eat in a lower Parlour, turning in at the foot of the Stairs in a
narrow Entry. And Sir Thomas Friar one of his Colonels following
him to the Parlour door, stooping to take his leave, the Duke de∣clining
imbraced Friar with these words, Honest Tom. and so
turning into the Room, one Iohn Felton at that instant, shadowed
behinde them, stabbed him to the heart with a back-blow of a
Coutel-knife, which stuck in his body till the Duke dragg'd it out,
and so enlarged the orifice, that streamed with the effusion of so
much bloud and spirit, that instantly he died, not able (it seems) to
utter a syllable; and certainly no soul there present, for he fell
backward into the Parlour, and the Assassinate fled: nor could
any creature discern the Murderer, but by several suspitions of
those that were left last above with the Duke: and therefore some
cried out upon Soubiez, the Frenchmen, Friar, whilest Felton having
no power to fly far, uncertain what to do, stepped aside into the
Kitchin, near at hand; hither the uproar and search followed, some
cried out, Where's the Villain? Felton mistaking the words for
Here's the Villain, suddenly started, and said, I am he, whom they
seized, and with much ado to preserve alive from the fury of the
Servants, Mr. Stamford the Dukes follower tilting at him with a
Rapier, which others put by, that missed but little of his intent, to
repay him to the full.

This being the truth, we can scarce give credit, that any one,
much less that the Earl of Cleveland and some others,* who were
in the hearing of the thing, reported, [that the most religious Mur∣derer
in the very act of striking, said, Lord have mercy on thy soul,
a Speech which the Duke had scarce ability to say himself, but was onely
heard to say, (some report with an Oath) The Villain hath kill'd me.]

We must observe the Authours easiness to believe Reports so im∣probable,
that the Earl and others (Witnes enow) should be so near
to hear the thing, and the several sayings, and yet could not meet
with the man till he discovered himself.

How very Christian-like he stiles •he Malefactour, The most reli∣gious
Murderer, and grounds his faith (no doubt) upon his charita∣ble
Requiem for the Duke's Soul, which he had scarce ability to say for
himself: and yet with the same certainty he assures us, that the
Duke was heard to say much more, and that with an Oath, The Villain
hath kill'd me. This Oath was either an Asseveration which needed
not, or a Curse, more wretched, and both alike unlikely to be
true.

Strange Reports are seldome of certainty, which wise men
justly forbear without good proof. To say upon hear-say that A.
B. hath hang'd himself, is an abominable untruth, if he be living.
Yet in such case, the party belied, hath time and means hereafter
personally to recover his good fame by disproving the Report. But
to create and chronicle a fatal Scandal upon the very Soul of a noblePage 122
person dying; and that irreccoverably beyond the reach of repair, is
no doubt most unbeseeming an Historian, or a good Christian.

And for his two especial, almost [singularly observable things] are
thus mistaken, that [the Gorps was (he says) totally abandoned by each
living man] Indeed he dead, the inquisition for Murder made eve∣ry
good man a party in the search, as in such distraction is always
needfull; and besides, the Duke's Dutchess and other Ladies in the
upper Chamber, hastened all mens affections and charity thither∣ward,
to preserve them and others in desperate agony. And for
the other, ill news hath wings, carried to Court by Captain Charls
Price, who found the King in the Presence chamber at his publick
daily Prayers, and the Company about him on their knees, over
whose heads he unhandsomly bestrid, to make his way to the King,
rounding his ear, The Duke is murdered; which being thus passi∣onately
acted, and so observed, the Chaplain he made a stop till the
King bid him go on, as not to interrupt his Devotions with any out∣ward
accident. [But others (he says) thought, he might dislike the
mode of the Dukes dispatch, yet was well pleased with the thing, as if
Providence had rid him of the subject, whom he could not prefer with
safe•y, nor desert with honour] an unhandsome character of the Kings
conscience.

Many Messengers posted to Court with this ill News, more
hasty than able to satisfie the particulars therein; and as passionate∣ly
the Courtiers posted to Portsmouth: There was one had com∣mand
to inquire of the Fact, to see the man, and to search out
somewhat to satisfie the King, and with his Warrant to the Go∣vernour,
was put in to the Prisoner, a little, timber, meagre, gastly,
frightfull face Fellow, already clapt into a small Centry house upon
the Guard, horribly laden with manacled Irons, neither to sit, nor
to ly down, but to be crippled against the Wall, with him thus
in private, and to sweeten his devilish conditions, the party pre∣tended,
that in affection to some of his Friends he came of this vi∣sit,
to administer comfort with his Prayers, the best effects of Chari∣ty
to him. But he answers, that he was not so ignorant to believe,
that a man in his condition should be admitted such comforts; but • ra∣ther
receive you an Examiner, (said he) impowred to make inquisition
of me and this Action of mine.

And after some dis•o•rse,* Sir, (said he) I shall be brief, I killed
him for the ••use of God and my Countrey. Nay, (said the other)
there may be hope of his life, the Surgeons say so. It is impossible▪
(he replied) I had the force of forty men, assisted by him that guided
my hand. And being interrogated to several Questions, he made
these Answers. That he was named John Felton, heretofore 〈◊〉
to a Foot Company ••der Sir James Ramsey: that he had en∣d••voured for a Commission to be Captain in this Expedition, and
faild t••ein, but without any regret upon the Duke, (from whom he had
Page 123
found respect) nor for any private interest whatsoever; that the late
Remonstrance of Parliament published the Duke so odious, that he ap∣peared
to him deserving death, which no Iustice durst execute. That it
was not many days since he resolved to kill him, but finding the Duke so
closely attended, that it should be his business to pass a Voluntier, and do
it in this Voyage. Somewhat he said of a Sermon at St. Faiths Church
under Pauls, where the Preacher spake in justification of every man in
a good cause to be Iudg and Executioner of sin, which he interpreted to be
him. That passing out at the Postern-gate upon Tower-hill he espied
that fatal Knife in a Cutlers Glass-ca•e, which he bought for sixteen
pence. It was the point-end of a tuff Blade, stuck into a cross Haft,
the whole length Handle and all, not twelve Inches, fastened to his
right Pocket, and from that time he resolved therewith to stab him.
That some days after he followed the Train to Portsmouth, and coming
by a Cross erected in the High-way▪ he sharpened the point thereof upon the
stone, believing it more proper in justice to advantage his design, than
for the idolatrous intent it was first erected. That he found continual
trouble and disquiet in minde untill he should perform this Fact, and
came to Town but that Morning. That no Soul living was ••cessary with
him by any ways or means of the Dukes Execution. That he was as∣sured,
his Fact was justified, and he the Redeemer of the Peoples suffer∣ings,
under the power of the Dukes •surpations, &c. And his Paper
tackt in the Crown of his Hat seemed to satisfie his Conscience
that he was thereof well pleased.

A little assurance may serve the turn to satisfie any charitable
person,* that the Duke [might premeditate of death, besides the leaving
of his Will behinde him] a greater wonder for a person of his high
quality to hazzard himself in a publick Expedition of Sea and Land,
without setling his Estate for his Wife and Children. And there∣fore
he bequeaths her the fourth part of his Lands. His Debts
sixty thousand pounds. His Iewels indeed were of good value, but
under•rated at three hundred thousand pounds, yet this is mentioned
by one, that thought it [too mu•h gain] though the Favourite of
two Kings;* when we are assured Duke Cardinal Richel•eu's Estate
was left certainly sixty Millions of Francks, accounted in English
six Millions of Pounds Sterling.

His Bowels were interred in Portsmouth by his dear and onely Si∣ster▪
the Countess of Denbigh,* and a handsome Memorial of him
erected there. His body brought to York-house, where his effigies
lay sometime in an illustrious manner upon a Hearse, and after
sumptuously intombed at Westminster in St. Edward's Chapel,
without any such stir, as the Historian would infer concerning his
Funeral, for his Executours paid for all, and it cost not the King a
Penny, and a stately Monument erected over his Grave for his lasting
memory.

And Felton found guilty at the Kings B••ch Bar was hanged at
Page 124Tiburn, against which time he was taught so much charity to his
own soul, as with remor•• to acknowledg his Fact damnable, with∣out
Gods great mercy; laying the guilt directly upon the Parlia∣ments
Remonstrance,* the immediate motive to his devilish De∣sign.

His Body was sent to Portsmouth,* where without the Town up∣on
the High-way it was gibbeted in Chains for some years, which I
often saw, [not sto••en away, as one relates] but after the Carkase was
consumed, or piece-meal rotted and fallen down, the Gibbet by re∣quest
of a Friend to the Dukes Family, was taken away, being but
a Sign-post to the memory of that Murder, and to be cause of dis∣course
concerning the Dukes fame, of which a wise man thus ex∣prest.

We are told [of ominous observations in reference to the Duke]
and what may we suppose them to be?*[that on the same day when
Dr. Lamb was slain, the Dukes Picture fell down in the High-commis∣sion-chamber
at Lambeth; but that which is most memorable (he
saith) was the Lady Davis foretelling, [that his time was not to come
till August] Her Predictions were sundry, concerning this Parlia∣ment,
and other her mad-brains Prophecies, never seriously ob∣served
by any so remarkable as our Authour.

Prophecy is not all of one and the same value,* either for the au∣thour
or manner. Some were Relaters onely, by the writings or
conversation of Prophets. Many stole their Predictions from Pro∣phets;
and the Pagans and Infidels might take those passages, not
understood by themselves, and so by them also ambiguously trans∣mitted.

The Sybills Prophecies were most famous among the ancient
Pagans and Christians, speaking plainly of the Resurrection, Iudg∣ment
of the World, Life everlasting, Glory, and reward of Righte∣ousness,
concerning Christian Faith and Religion.

Sibulae, signifying Women of councel with God; Sios quasi Theos
Bule is Councel. All women Prophets generally are called Sibyls,
but for their Number, (of whom we mean) they were but Ten.

The one of them Cumaena offered her nine Books in three Tomes
to sell to Tarquinius Priscus, who refusing the price, she burnt the
first Tome, yet asked the same value for the other Two; burnt the
second also, and had her first demand for the third Tome; and so
Page 125
she vanished. They were laid up in a Chest of Stone in the Capitol
with wondrous care, but were burnt in the flame of the Capitol,
Anno 671.

Another, Cumaea, she lived in the Wars of Troy, for Aeneas had
access to her at Cuma in Italy, and her Cave or Cell remained untill
Anno Christi 1539. when by the general Earthquake her Cell was
swallowed 〈◊〉 prophecied of our Saviour Jesus, born a King of the
royal House of David, to reign as a King upon the House of Jacob for
ever.

The Books of Sibylls were transcribed from hand to hand, and
used as Reasons of State by the Romans, and were read, used, and
commended by the learned Fathers of the Church. And God him∣self
in goodness had a special regard therein, to procure credit unto
those Predictions, which in after-ages the Christians vouched against
the Pagans, as being no new Doctrine to them; and God renewed
their esteem, when the Saviour was born, for Tiberius Caesar (tem∣pore
Christi) caused a second review of their Books, to distinguish
them from others corrupt. The ancient Fathers used them against
Infidels, which the Romans received but as reasons of State.

They were not all Virgins, nor could their Prophecying be Prae∣mium
Virginitatis; why not indifferent Virginibus? But because
the other were holy and righteous. Those righteous and just men of
old, Iob, &c. could not possibly have been made so righteous, so
just, by being cleansed from their sins, without faith resolved in
and upon the Incarnation, Death, and Resurrection of Christ, through
the grace of God made manifest unto them. Why not? as these righte∣ous
ones, remembred in Scripture, or of such not spoken of there,
but yet assuredly were, and lived before or after the Floud, untill
the giving of the Law by Moses; not onely such as lived in Israel,
(the Prophets) but such as were without the Pale of Israel, (holy
Iob?) And so, why not of some Gentiles, as Trismegistus, Hista∣spes,
O•pheus? Etenim ipsorum corda eadem mundabantur fide Media∣toris,
& diffundebatur charitas in iis per Spiritum Sanctum; as saith
Austin. Ask not how: God is various and admirable in his
ways, and wondrous in his works, not Merita sequitur, sed facit
merita.

The Devils tremble, Balaam was wicked, yet he prophecied, ••ot
by the Devil, (with whom otherwise he wrought) but by God; for
the Devil loquitur e propriis, even then when he speaks not propria,
and so speaks Lies intermingled with Truths, either in the matter,
manner, or end; he can foretell, inspire, suggest, (unto his own)
things to come, which in respect of us (not of him, nor them∣selves)
be predictious. He can inform and advise concerning us,
but the things of God, secrets of his counsel, he cannot see. GodPage 126
may and doth sometimes reveal, such things to him and his, as he
doth to blessed spirits and good men, but in a different sort; God
takes possession of his Prophets soul, speaking to them intelligibly.
Spiritus Domini qui in me, & Verbum quod loquitur per •s 〈◊〉.

The others are driven to what they say, and so understand not
what they speak; truths against their wills, and to give evidence
to that they would not do▪ Balaam did so, and yet it was no act of
Satan. And though the Sibylls were as bad, yet, why the act of
Satan, that they foretold of Christ? The Devil was not so ill af∣fected
to his own State, as to foretell the ruine of it; nor could
teach men honesty, which he knew not himself. He might know,
that Christ was to come to be born of Judah of the House of David,
but to be born of the Virgin Mary, Daughter of Anna, Wife to
Ioseph, and his Name to be Iesus, &c. untill he saw the event, he
could not. Those and many such are in Sibylls, which makes some
conclude them counterfeits, postnatis, forged by Christians.

In a word, Arreptiti and Enthusiasts amongst Pagans, those pos∣sessed
of unclean spirits, are distracted, enraged, carried, haled, di∣storted
in body and minde. The true Prophets spake words of
knowledg and understanding, used gestures of modesty, sobriety,
and gravity. It is against reason, that by the Spirit of understand∣ing
a man should be divested of his former understanding; that
light should make a man blinde. But certainly such were not those
Dames, the Lady Davies and Mistris Carew, their words and wri∣tings
always vain, full of whimsies, uncertain, full of mysterious
expressions, they knew not what, and so assuredly were from and
by the Devil, knowing by several designs of wicked men, what
the Event was likely to be, but not certainly what to be. But to
our History.

The Duke being dead,* the Kings personal presence hastened all
the Necessaries fitting for the Fleet, and the great Expectation on
whom that Honour would be conferred, all men in amaze, the Earl
of Lindsey was assigned for the Command. Certainly h• was a
person of no likely presence, but of some experience, by his last
Expedition thither, and hereafter to the last of his life made good
his faith with gallantry and courage. So that on the eighth of
September he set forth from Portsmouth, and came to the Bar of the
Haven with reasonable speed of winde and weather, where he
findes that the Duke Cardinal Richelie• had finished his monstrous
Work with Boom and Barracado, exceeding all the mighty De∣signs
that ever were effected, by narrative of any History: yet
none of these, nor all the Enemies Land-works, Forts, or
Strengths, could deter this brave Man from dangerous Attempts;
having passed the Out-forts and Bulwarks, even to the Mouth
of the Bar, untill a cross Winde returned them foul of each
other.

Page 127And so it appeared impossible, the Town viewing the sad effects,
without more disp•te, called in their King, with the greatest submis∣sion
that Revolters could express,* and had mercy accordingly to the
remain which Famine had left, for otherways they lost none by the
Sword; the King entring with all mercifull mildness the eighteenth
of October, and found but four thousand, the remain of twenty two
thousand Souls.

The prodigious Works and Fortifications were instantly slight∣ed,
and for the ignominy of the Inhabitants, the very name Rochel
was sacrificed to oblivion, and a new Title given to that City, Bor∣go
Maria, in honour of Queen Mother, the Cardinals dear Patro∣ness.

Thus ended that quarrel between King Lewis and his rebellious
Rochellers, for whose cause King Iames somewhat (but King Charls
much more) endeavoured their relief; first by Treaties, and after
by Forces: the Grounds and Reasons I have endeavoured to assure
from observation of the particular causes since their first difference,
and which reasonably the Duke of Buckingham's Manifesto seems
to satisfie: somewhat may be said to the Design in policy, but for
that score of Religion it is truly noted▪ That not onely that very
Sect,* but of that very Church, for whose Protection King Charls
was so solicitous, and whose supportation he now so ardently en∣deavoured,
became afterwards none of the meanest sticklers and
fomenters of his own and his Churches troubles. A document to
Kings to be wary whom they aid. And so the Fleet returned safe
home again.

The Parliament met the twentieth of Ianuary,* and convenient
for complaints against the Customers, for destraining the Merchants
Goods for Tonnage and Poundage, which the King meant to defend,
and therefore summoned them to his Banquetting-house at White∣hall,
and told them, That the difference might soon be decided, if his
words and actions were considered, for though he took •ot those duties
as belonging to his Prerogative, nor had he declared to challenge them
his right, but onely desired them by gift of his People; why had they not
passed the Bill according to their promise to clear his former and future
actions in this time of his great necessity? which he now required them
to make good, and so give end to all Questions without delay.

But the religious Commons must reform God's cause before the
King's, nor would they be prescribed their Consultations, but re∣solved
to remit the Bill of Tunnage and Poundage at pleasure.
And so they did appoint, Committees, one for Religion, and the
other for Civil affairs, to represent the abuses in both.

The first Committee for the Commons of England to regulate Re∣ligion,
which (one says) the Courtiers called the Inquisition,* and well
they might for such it was. The Points were general Arminianism
and Popery.

Page 128The Informations were many; concerning the first, grounded
upon the ancient nine Articles, resolved at Lambeth 1595. by the
reverend Bishops and Deans, on purpose to declare their sense of
the nine and thirty Articles in those particulars,* and unto which the
Archbishop of York and his Province did conform.

They did so indeed, deliver their sense, as Opinions, not publick
Doctrines, as is truly observed; and King Iames recommended
them over to the Synod of Dort, and there asserted by suffrage of
those Doctours, and were afterwards commended to the Convo∣cation
in Ireland, to be inserted into the Articles of Religion, 1615.
And so they were. But how?

The Observation tells us, That our first Reformers were not re∣gulated
by Lutheran or Calvinian Doctrines,* but by the constant
current of Antiquity: and the way of Melancton most consonant
thereto, was approved by Bishop Hooper on the Decalogue, and by
Bishop Latimer in his Sermons, but also by the Compiler of the
Book of Articles, and the Book of Homilies, which are the publick
Monuments of this Church in Points of Doctrine. But the Calvi∣nian
entring the way, there aro•e a difference in particular judg∣ments
of these Debates, the matter controverted pro & con by
some confessors in Prison, in the time of Queen Mary▪ she dead,
and our exiled Divines returning from Geneva, Basil, and Frank∣ford,
(where Calvin's Dictates became Oracles) brought with them
his Opinions of Predestination, Grace, and Perseverance, which
they scattered over all the Church, by whose authority and double
diligence of the Presbyterian party, to advance their holy Discipline,
it became universally received as the onely true, Orthodox Doctrine,
and so maintained in the Schools of Cambridg: in so much that when
Peter Baro a French-man, Professor for the Lady Margaret there, re∣viving
the Melancton way in his publick Lectures, and drawing others
to the same perswasion; He was complained of by Doctor Whita∣kers,
Doctor Willet, Master Chaterton, Master Perkins, and such like,
unto the Arch-bishop of Canterbury Doctor Whitgift, to suppress
that Faction, who assembling at Lambeth, Doctor Richard Fletcher
Bishop of London, and Doctor Richard Vaughan elect of Bangor,
with advice of Doctor Whitakers, Doctor Tindal, and others, (all
parties to the Sute) agree on the nine Articles to be sent to Cam∣bridg,
for composing their present Controversie, the six and twen∣eth
of November, 1595.

Doctor Baro thus discouraged, at the end of his first three years,
quits his Reading, and retires home to Fran•e, leaving the Univer∣sity
in much disorder, for lack of such his abilities. Amongst his
followers, was one Master Barret, who in his Sermon at St. Maries,
not onely defended Baro, but offended the opinions of Calvin, Be∣za▪
and such others of the Reformatours, of which he was convent∣ed
before the Heads, (Doctor Iames Mountague Master of SidneyPage 129
College, a worthy Divine, but then of their own opinion) and by
them May 5. next following he was prescribed his Recant•tion, and
did so; yet the contentions were disputed higher, the nine Articles
of Lambeth came down, hastened upon this occasion, otherwise per∣haps
they had not come at all.

But though these Articles were thus (and no otherwise) made
and agreed, and made known to Queen Elizabeth, by William Lord
Burleigh Lord Treasurer of England, and Chancellour of the Uni∣versity,
who mis-liked the Tenets and Proceedings: she much of∣fended
with such Innovations in the publick Doctrine of the Church,
resolved to attaint them all of Premunire, but upon received esteem
of that Prelate Arch-bishop, (whom she called her Black Husband)
and favou•ably admitting his Excuse, she commanded him to re∣call
and suppress those Articles, which for a long time not a Copy
thereof was to be found, though after by degrees they peeped out,
and again in the Conference at Hampton-court, 1603. Doctor Rey∣nold's
Record, That the nine Assertions orthodoxal (as he stiles them)
concluded upon at Lambeth, might be inserted in the Book of Articles
of the Church of England. The King unacquainted with such no∣vel
Doctrine, asked, what they were? and was told as before said.
To which he answered, That when such Questions arise among Scho∣lars,
the quietest proceedings were to determine them in the University,
and not to stuff the Book with all Conclusions Theological. See Conf. p. 24▪ 40, 41. Let the Reader judg of these Reasons, whether these
nine Assertions thus authorized, are so canonically confirm'd as to
determine them orthodox Doctrine of the Church of England, and
those men for Arminians that do not subscribe to them? or other∣wise.

But we finde our Historian very positive for that party, and so
zealous for his orthodox men, that being in the List alone without
an Adversary, he rants it very high, accusing royal favour, for
sheltring the Arminians, as he calls Doctor Cozins, Manwaring, and
Sibthorp; but also through the prevalency of the Bishops of Win∣chester
and London advanced to great preferment, &c.

And when he comes to the Papist, he is in bodily fear [lest Tiber
should drown the Thames.] His Reasons are the uncontrouled
preaching of several Points tending that way, by Mountague, Good∣man,
Cozens, and others. Secondly, the audacious obtruding su∣perstitious
Ceremonies by the Prelates. Thirdly, fixed Altars
cringing towards them. The last, surely the most, standing up at
Gloria Patri, dangerous dilapidations from the true Reformation,
which he calls Popery oblique, we are like to be assured of a perfect
account from this Authour, that seems so partial in his Rela∣tions.

But we come to the Abuses in Civil affairs.* The Printer was
questioned for printing the Petition of Right with the Kings first
Page 130Answer, which was not satisfactory. He confessed, that during the
first Session of Parliament, 1500. Copies were printed without
that addition, and since he had order from the Atturney General to
reprint it with that Addition.

Many Merchants Goods seized, and Informations in Star-cham∣ber
against them, for not paying the Customes of Tunnage and
Poundage. Some Impositions against the Petition of Right and Pri∣vilege
of Parliament, upon which Sir Io: Worstenholm, the Farmers
of the Custome, Master Daws, and Master Carmarthen his As∣sistants,
were called to account, who were excused by the King,
that they acted by his command, which he presumed the House of
Commons would grant him by Bill, as they had promised.

The Parliament would not understand it so, their Commission
onely impowred them to collect the Moneys, but not to seize the
Merchants Goods.* But for the Bill, his Majesty had declared Tun∣nage
and Poundage to be a Principal Revenue of his Crown, and so his
own, already, without cause otherwise to demand it, or they to
grant; therefore that Record must be cancelled, and the King con∣fess
his no Right thereunto, else they cannot grant but their free
gift.

The Parliaments Plot was this way, for the King to leave his Cu∣stomes
to their Seisure, as Delinquents, by their undue behaviour
therein, which in honour he could not, nor would.

The House in a Hubbub at Secretary Coke who brought this Mes∣sage;
they adjourn for some days, and when they met, the King ad∣journed
them till the first of March,* when up starts Sir Io: Eliot with
a stinging Complaint against the Lord Treasurer We••on, as acces∣sary
to all Evils in Church and State, with a Design to transfer our
English Trade unto Foraigners; and so in love he was, of what he
meant to say, that the Heads thereof were copied and published to
the Treasurer, who prepared the King with a Message, that followed
his Speech immediately to adjourn till the tenth Day; but now they
grow high, and check the Speaker for admitting the Message: and
therefore they will go on, and give ear to Eliot's Remonstrance,
which he offered to the Speaker and Clerk, but they refuse, and so
he was bold to reade it himself. In effect, That they had considered of
a Bill for Tunnage and Poundage, but being over-pressed with other
business, and that of it self so perplext, would require much leisure to
discharge, which at that time they could not, this present Session, mo∣ving
hastily to an end. And lest his Majesty should her•after, as he had
done heretofore, incline to evil Spirits, or be abused to believe, that he
might justly receive the Subsidies of Tunnage and Poundage, which
they humbly declare to be against the Fundamental Law of the Nation,
and contrary to the Kings late Answer to the Petition of Right. And
therefore they crave that his Majesty would for the future forbear such
Page 131
Taxes, and not to take it ill, if his Subjects refuse, what is demanded by
arbitrary and unwarrantable power.

The Speaker was moved to put it to the Vote, whether it should be
preferrd to the King or no? To which he craved pardon, having been
ordered by the Kings command expresly, to leave the House; and at∣tempting
to rise, was by force held down by Master Hollis, who
swore, he should sit still, whilest they pleased; but not prevailing,
Sir Peter Hayman moved Hollis to reade these Articles which the
House protested.

First,*whosoever shall bring in Innovation of Religion, or by fa∣vour
seek to introduce Popery, or Arminianism, or other Opinions dis∣agreeing
from the true and orthodox Church, shall be reputed a capital
Enemy to this Kingdom and Common-wealth.

Secondly, whosoever shall counsel or advise the taking or levying of
the Subsidies of Tunnage and Poundage, not being granted by Parlia∣ment,
or shall be an Actor or Instrument therein, shall be likewise reputed
a capital Enemy to the Common-wealth.

Thirdly, if any man shall yield voluntarily, or pay the same, not be∣ing
granted by Parliament, he shall be reputed a Betraier of the Liber∣ties
of England, and an Enemy to this Common-weath.

To each of these in order the House gave there a loud applause
at every close, which distempers reaching but to the Kings ear, he
sent for the Serjeant of the Mace, but he was kept in, and Sir Miles
Hobart a Member locked the Door, and kept the Key. The King
incensed at these insufferable Contempts, sent Maxwel the Usher of
the Black Rod to dissolve the Parliament, but him and his Message
they excluded, which put the King into a forcible Posture, the Cap∣tains
with their Pensioners and Guard to break their entrance; they
fearing the effects suddenly slunk out of the House, not daring to
abide his anger, who instantly came to the Lords and told them.

My Lords, I never came here upon so un∣pleasant
an occasion, it being the Dissolution
of a Parliament; therefore men may have
some cause to wonder, why I should not
rather chuse to do this by Commission, it be∣ing
a general Maxime of Kings, to leave
harsh commands to the Ministers, them∣selves
onely executing pleasing things. Yet
Page 132
considering that Justice as well consists in re∣ward
and praise of virtue, as punishing of
vice, I thought it necessary to come here to
day to declare to you, and all the World,
that it was meerly the undutifull and sediti∣ous
carriage of the Lower House, that hath
made the Dissolution of this Parliament.
And you my Lords are so far from being
causes of it, that I take as much comfort in
your dutifull demeanours, as I am justly dis∣tasted
with their Proceedings. Yet to avoid
mistakings, let me tell you, that it is so far
from me to adjudg all that House guilty, that
I know there are many there as dutifull Sub∣jects
as any in the World, it being but some
few Vipers amongst them, that did cast this
mist of undutifulness over most of their eys;
yet to say truth, there was a good number
there, that could not be infected with this
contagion, in so much that some did express
their duties in speaking, which was the gene∣ral
fault of the House the last day. To con∣clude,
as these Vipers must look for their re∣ward
of punishment; so you my Lords
must justly expect from me that favour and
protection, that a good King oweth to his lo∣ving
and dutifull Nobility.

And now my Lord Keeper,*do what I commanded you. Who in
the Kings name dissolved the Parliament.

Page 133But because Tunnage and Poundage was much disputed, we shall
shall say something to the first ground and occasion of them.

It is a fundamental truth, essential to the constitution and go∣vernment
of this Kingdom,* and hereditary Privilege of the Sub∣ject;
that no Tax, Tallage, or other charge might be laid without
consent in Parliament: this was ratified by the contract of this
Nation with the Conquerour, upon his admittance, and declared
and confirmed in the Laws which he published, and yet afterward•
broken by King Iohn and Henry 3. then confirmed by Mag•••
Charta, and other succeeding Laws; but then attempted to be bro∣ken
by the two succeeding Edwards, when the Subject pursued
those Breaches by the opportunity of frequent Parliaments, and
found relief, procuring the right of the Subjects to be fortified by
new Statutes. And it may be observed that those •ings in the very
Acts whereby they did break the Law, did really affirm the Sub∣jects
liberty and disclaimed that right of him, a thing which hath
been since challenged by successive Sovereigns, the Merchant in
those times usually giving consent to such Taxes, but limited to a
time, to the ratification of the next following Parliament, to be
cancelled, or confirmed.

But mostly these upon Merchandise were taken by Parliament,
six or twelve per pound for time, and years, as they saw cause, for de∣fence
of the Sea: sometimes also granted unto Noblemen, or Mer∣chants,
but for that use: and afterwards they were granted to the
King for life, and so continued for divers Descents.

Between the time of Edward 3. and Queen Mary, never any
Prince (some say) demanded any Imposition but by Parliament:
Queen Mary indeed laid a charge upon Cloth by the equity of Tun∣nage
and Poundage; because the rate set upon Wool was much
more than that upon Cloth, and little Wool being transported un∣wrought,
she had reason to impose so much more, as brought them
to an equality, but that there still continued a less charge upon Wool
wrought into Cloth, than upon Wool carded out unwrought, untill
King Iames his times, when upon Nicholson's advice, there was a
further addition of charge, which is that which we call the preter∣mitted
Custome.

In Queen Elizabeths time some Impositions, nay many, increased;
the general prosperity of her Reign, in the conjuncture of time and
forrein affairs overshadowing, and her power and will commanding,
without regret or complaint. That of Currans was one; for the
Venetians having taxed a charge upon our English Cloth, she raised
that of the Currans, with pretence to be even with them, the
sooner to take off the other. And this came to be denied to King
Iames by Bates a Merchant, and a Sute in the Exchequer adjudged
it for the King. The three Judges (then no more) distinguished
their several opinions.

Page 134The first, that the King might impose upon forreign Commodities,
but not upon Natives to be transported, or necessary to be imported for
the use of the Kingdom.

The second Iudg was of opinion he might impose upon all forreign
Merchandize, whether superfluous or no, but not upon native.

The third, was absolute, seeing the King had the custody of the Ports,
and Guard of the Seas, and might shut up or open the Ports as he pleased,
〈◊〉 had a Prerogative to impose upon all Merchandize exported or im∣••rted.

Afterwards King Iames laid charges upon all Commodities Out∣ward
and Inward, not limited to time or occasion: This Judgment
and the right of imposing, was a question in 7. and 12. Ian. and
in 18. and 21. Ian. It was declined by the Commons House. But
in 1 Car. it was renewed by the Kings Propositions, and then rather
confirmed, not abolished.

It was not sufficient for the King to break up the School of dis∣sension,*
and separate the Members, whose indisposition to his quiet
might disperse and spit out malignities against the Kings honour, to
excuse themselves; therefore he did no doubt take President from
his Fathers dissolving his Parliament. Anno. And by his Exam∣ple
a Declaration is published by the King to all his loving Subjects,
setting forth his Reasons and Motives for dissolving the Parliament,
with Breviats of all Transactions of both Sessions; closing all with
mention of the late Duke of Buckingham, as the onely man of mishap
to all foregoing Events of Parliament, and mischief to the People, and
yet the Evils increased, so he was mistaken, not being the cause, which
was then, and still continues, in some few of the Members of the Parlia∣ment.

We have ingeniously set down the narrative part, not so particu∣lar
neither, that should seem to exasperate, for the King, but certain∣ly
we have not read nor heard of higher Provocations, Indignities,
disorderly offered to a Power, by whose dispensation any Meeting,
Convocation, Assembly, have their Indulgence: and therefore now
in likelihood, to be the last adventure to hazzard another Parlia∣ment:
for oft have they for many years before, been unwildy, the
latter times of Queen Elizabeth, the most of King Iames, and
hitherto of this King, yet it was his fate to adventure forward to∣wards
a fatal end of all.

Whether malignity of those Members gave Examples to
others,* their Effects flew over Seas, and infected the French Parlia∣ments
about this time, where that King discontinued the Assem∣blies
of the three Estates upon far less provocations; for from the
antient Assembly it continued to the year 1614. when first the
third Estate representing (as ours) their Commons, encroached too
busily upon their Clergy, and some preheminency of the Nobility,
Page 135
enjoyed by favour of their former Kings, so offended the Royalty,
that he resolved to dissolve them, and with good counsel, never ad∣mit
the like. The future Kings following that President, yet with
some regret of the former manne•, it was there devised, to com∣municate
with his People in another manner, called La Assemble
des Notables, some selected persons out of each order of Estate,
of his own election or naming; and to them were added some
Counsellour out of every particular Court of Parliament, (there be∣ing
eight of them in all France) through that Kingdom, and so be∣ing
fewer in number, would not heed such a confusion as the Gene∣ral
Assembly of States had done before. Their Acts are as obliging
to all sorts of Subjects, as the others were, onely from Con∣troulers
they are become good Counsellours still. And with this
course the Estates and People are as yet content; It being no
shame to submit to this Power whom it will be sin to overcome.

But the King finding his Declaration to take the effect of satis∣fying
his well-affected Subjects,* took a resonable time to question
those whose punishments he had referred till now: and therefore
the eighteenth Day he sends for some the most refractory Mem∣bers
to the Council Table: Master Hollis, of honourable extracti∣on;
Sir Io: Eliot, Sir Miles Hobart, Sir Peter Hayman, Sir Io:
Barington, Master Selden, Master Stroud, Master Correton, Master
Valentine, Master Long, Master Kirton.

Hollis was asked, wherefore (the Day of Dissolving) he placed
himself by the Chair, above divers of the Privy Council?

He said,* That he had seated himself there some other times before,
and took it his due there, as in any place whatsoever (unless at the
Council-Board) to sit above those Privy-counsellours. That he came
into the House with as much zeal as any other, to serve his Majesty, yet
finding his Majesty offended, he humbly desired to be the subject rather of
his Mercy than of his Power.

The Lord Treasurer replied, You mean rather of his Majesties Mer∣cy
than of his Iustice.

I say, (answered Hollis) of his Majesties Power, my Lord.

Hobart's offence was for locking the Parliament Door,* and put∣ting
the Key in his Pocket, was excused to be the Command of
the House.

All the other Gentlemen were questioned for reproving the
Speaker, not permitting him to do the Kings Commands, to •••ch
they pleaded Privilege of Parliament.

But Eliot was charged for words he spake in Parliament,* and for
producing the last Remonstrance.

His answer was more peremptory, Whatsoever was said or done by
him in that place, and at that time, was in the capacity as a publick man,
and a Member of that House; and that he was and ever will be ready to
Page 136
give an account of his sayings and doings there, whensoever he should
be called unto it by that House, where he conceives he is onely to
be questioned, and in the mean time, he being now but a private
man, he would not now trouble himself to remember what he said or
did there as a publique Person.

But they were all Ten committed to several Prisons, the Tower,
Gatehouse, Fleet; and the first of May the Attorney general Noy,
sent Processe out against them, to appear in the Star-Chamber,
and answer his Information there: They refused to appear; deny∣ing
the power of that Court, their offences being done in Parliament;
which created a large controversie in law, concerning the Juris∣diction
of either Court.

As for Eliots Doctrine,* It is said to be the first seed which after
took root in Parliament] It was indeed a new Tenet; Liberty, like
the Popes Conclave; or rather the Scots Kirk Assemblies; such re∣ligious
doctrines they had, nay every Minister made it up in his
Pulpit, never to be questioned for speeches (though treasonable
there) but by themselves in their Assemblies. We have sundry
examples that our English Soveraigns did not suffer contempts up∣on
their Person, or Estate by any Member of Parliament, without
due punishment inflicted on the offenders, and it was law and Ju∣stice
heretofore: It seemed not so now, the Judges conniving, de∣clared
the whole House of Commons under an Arrest, when Diggs
and Eliot had been restrained. And therefore the King suspecting
their further positive opinions in Eliots case at this time, put them
to the question in private, which they seemed to resent with th••
House; But when they afterwards sat in the seat of Judgement,
at the Kings Bench Bar, they could sentence them with Law, and
reason also, to several sines, which were paid by some; others,
dying under restraint, and those not able, were released upon peti∣tion,
submission, and conditions to forbear the Court Ten miles
compasse, under 2000 l. bond for their good behaviour, and that
was Mr. Stroud, being a younger Son of Sr. Iohn his Father then
living, and had no means to pay; but was after well paid for his
pains, and for that suffering.

To begin this year,* comes to the Court of England the old
Marquesse Huntley, that zealous Romane Catholique, from Scot∣la••
fled from thence with the Earls of Arol, Athol, Nidsdale,
〈◊〉, and some others of that Nobility. The Marquess had been
too favourable to them in the cast of his office (hereditary Sheriff
of the North of Scotland) concerning their connivance with the
insolencies of some Priests, which caused the Council there to put
them all to the Horn for non-appearance, and afterwards to Pro∣clame
them Rebels: But to avoid apprehending, they all fled hi∣ther
Page 137
for some sanctuary, untill their cause were pleaded, which
found little favour, they being returned back upon good caution
and security, to abide their several trials at home.

Some overtures were made here from the Emperour,* in refer∣rence
to the further quiet of Germany, and the cause of the Pa∣latinate:
And finding the Queen of Bohemia neerly concerned,
and in a narrow condition, her former Pension from hence, de∣creasing,
she was consulted by Message of Sr. Henry Vane (sent
by the King to visit her) and to relate the offer of 30000 l.
per annum from the Emperour, with conveniency of Reception,
within the Palatinate, Her Eldest Son to marry one of the Em∣perours
daughters, and to be brought up in that Imperial Court.
Whereunto (it is said)* She made this Magnanimous reply [Ra∣ther
then to suffer her childe to be bred in idolatry, She would cut
his throat with her own hand] for which the Authour so highly
extolls her, to have so erect a minde in her lowest estate.

This appears to be Strange: That Sr. Henry Vane sent on pur∣pose
over Seas of an Arrand, should be so mistaken in his mes∣sage,
to make it the Kings desire, which was but his bare proposal:
And that such a religious Person as her Majesty, should be forward
to commit so damnable a sin to her self, as to Murther her own Son,
rathe• then to consent that he should be bred a Papist, and so to prevent
a hazzard (his damnation it seems) under the profession of the Church
of Rome.

The Wars in Italy began two years since,* about the succession
of the Duchies of Mantua and Monferrat, which after the death
of the Duke Vincent without children, fell to the Duke of Nevers.
The Spaniards (through Jealousie) without right or title take
Arms; so did the Duke of Savoy, He seized some places in Mon∣ferrat,
and they besieged Casal: The Venetians in suspition of the
Spaniards, further progresse in Italy, and joyn with Nevers. So
does France, who passeth by force through Savoy, to the streight
of Susa; and after the taking many Towns of Savoy, falls upon
the Spainard, takes Cambrey, besieges Montmelian, sends before to
Piemont, and follows himself in person, where he was victorious,
leaving the poor Duke of Savoy, to seek preservation in desert and
unaccessible places. Yet the Spainard continues the siege of Casal,
under command of Spinola, And the French defends the Citadel
by force of Toras, two succesful Generals, the one in the Low-Countreys,
and the other against the English at the Isle of Rhe. The
businesse came to this, The Town and Castle were already yeeld∣ed
to Spinola, and the Citadel had capitulated to surrender by
such a day if succour came not. In the interim Spinola dies of
Infection, the Duke of Savoy in his Bed▪ when by intercession
of the Pope and Cardinal Mazerines first Negotiation and dexte∣rity;
the peace was concluded with the Emperour of Vienna, and
Page 138
all caressed in that Treaty. The French restores all to the Savoy,
Nevers begs pardon, and is invested; the Spaniard renders Mon∣ferrat,
and all are Friends again, which the fume of ambition had
caused with much bloud-shed.

And really those two Nations, having stoutly wrangled, by Fa∣mine,
Sword, and Sickness in Italy, with the loss of above a Milli∣on
of Mortals among them, came neither of them to their secret
end, and reaped no other salary but vain-glory, and all Neigh∣bours
about suffered by siding to their several humours.

When the French had broken that puissant party of the House
of Austria in Italy,* he devises new Alliance to attach the Spaniard.
And first by Mediation of the Venetians, they are put upon it to
propose a Treaty for Peace between the two Crowns of England
and France, which was not difficult for us to accept, King Charls
being more manacled at home by his own Subjects, than the
French were with outward Forces. And so both parties having
their several Designs, they soon agreed into these Articles.

1. That the two Kings shall renew former Alliance, invio∣lable,
with free Commerce, and in this particular, such things
may be proposed to add or diminish, as either part shall judg con∣venient.

2. That for what is past during the late Difference, in satis∣faction,
shall be demanded on either side.

3. That the Articles of Marriage of the Queen of Great
Brittain shall be confirmed, and concerning her Domesticks to
propose Expedients to be added or diminished.

4. All former Alliances between the Crowns shall stand
good, unless changed by this present Treaty.

5. And the two Kings being thus remitted to their former
affections, shall respectively correspond towards the assistance
of their Allies (so far as the continuation of affairs, and the
general good shall permit) for procuring of the repose of the
Troubles of Christendom.

6. Ambassadours on either part to be dispatcht for ratificati∣cation
and Residencies in either Court.

7. And touching Ships at Sea, with Letters of Marcque
on either side, that for 2. moneths following, shall n•t prejudice this
Agreement, Provided to restore eithers Prize after that time
upon demand.

Page 139
8. These Articles to be joyntly signed the 14 of this pre∣se•t
April, and instantly then, to be consigned into the hands of
the Lords Ambassadors of Venice, to be delivered to each King
a•a day prefixt. All acts of Hostility to cease, and to be Pro∣clamed
in both Kingdoms the 20. of May following.

And in September Sr. Thomas Edmonds Controller of
the Kings Houshold, and the Marquesse of Chasteau∣neut
were sent reciprocally from either King, to take
confirmation of these by Oath.

The State of Spain in no worse condition of retrograde then
either of the other,* finding it some disadvantage upon him for
two such Monarchs, to piece up their Peace, meant to make sure
of One. Not that he was so low [though Pasquin poasted him
up in a Friers habit at Rome] as begging friendship. A com∣mon
abuse among Princes,* being subject to the pleasure of Po∣ets
and Painters, not so handsom to be chronicled for Authori∣ty,
seeing at that time the House of Austria was high enough, the
Emperour (on the other side by way of equal return) eleva∣ted
on his Throne with a King fallen at his feet, and the Eagle
(loaden with feathers) plucking the Crown off his Head; but
these fancies are the common peoples food.

But of this arrand (we are told) came Peter Reuben hither,
the famous rich Painter of Antwerp, Secretary and Gentleman
of the Chamber to the Arch-Duchesse of Eugenia, Which was
but thus; King Charles had a minde to dignifie the structure of
the Banquetting• House at White-Hall, with ornament of Paint∣ing
in the in-side, and Reuben sent hither for that designe, He
having lately finished most excellent Figures, and Historical Pie∣ces
for the Queen Mothers Palace at Paris; The like he did here.
The Paintings over head in the Room fore•shortened and look∣ing
downwards, as from the clouds, the rarest postures that late
ages can paralel, being the portraictures of King Iames in seve∣ral
relations with all Imaginary similitude of Him, tending to∣wards
Eternity; for which he was well rewarded, with the ho∣nour
of Knighthood to boot. Indeed, the Artist had an indif∣ferent
esteem for his skill, and by his wealth, was wise enough
to receive Informations on both parts, in reference to Peace;
but never to be Plenepotentiary of either side; for truly, I can∣not
call him so much as Agent for any, unlesse we admit him
Ambo-dexter-Ambassadour; for he was the means that a greater
man (Don Carlos Colonas) came after to do the work; And I
Page 140
have some knowledge in the particulars, that the other was ra∣ther
set on by us, when (with that conveniency) we had him
here.

It was in Iuly, That an Arrest was made upon one Billing∣ham,
(sometimes a Captain at the Isle of Rhe) and an attempt
made to his Rescue by some Templers,* being acted in their
Quarters of Priviledge to their Houses; and to their cost, they
were wounded by the opposition of the Lord Major and his City
Bands, that were wilde to flourish out their Ensigns against any
Gentlemen, their Patrons. This undertaking increased to a hot
skirmish of above five hundred.; Of the Majors Militia four were
killed, and sundry others hurt; above an hundred on both sides,
and so the Evening parted the▪. This uprore so neer the Court
caused the King to speed Justice with an extraordinary Session
to be held in Guild-Hall London, for Arraignment of several of
the Malefactors, seized vpon in the quarrel, And by ill hap, laid
hold on Two, who were accounted Principalls, because more
publique (Captain Ashurst, and Iohn Stamford the late Dukes
servant) for it was no medling with the Students; And though
Stanford came by but by chance in a Coach, and onely drew his
sword, without any part in the fray; These Two onely were
found guilty by the City Jury, and executed at Tyburn. Stan∣ford
had his pardon before, being in company when a Watch∣man
was killed at a Tavern called Duke-Humphreys, and his re∣lations
to his late Master, made his crime the more remarkable,
now exceeding the bounds of Reason, so without the bounds of
Mercy.

There had been a Manuscript Book contrived long since,* by
Sr. Robert Dudly at Florence 1613. (that discontented Catho∣lique)
who descended from the Dudlies Earls of Warwick, and
so he stiled himself. It was a Rapsodie of severall Projects for
increase of the Kings revenue, and somewhat in prejudice of pro∣ceedings
in Parliaments. Sundry Copies thereof were disperst
by such as meant not much honour to the King, and therefore
suspected to contrive the Book, though pretended for his Ma∣jesties
Instruction, as the manner had been, to force such feigned
discoveries, and fix them for the Kings designes; and therefore
the Earls of Bedford, Somerset and Clare, Sr. Robert Cotten, Mr.
Selden, and Mr. Saint Iohn were committed, and an Informati∣on
entered in Star-chamber against them, But Sr. David Fowles
upon oath, cleered the suspition, and discovered the Authour,
and so it ended,

William Herbert (Son of Henry) Earl of Pembrook dies in
April;* He was the third Earl from his Creation, 3 Elizabeth,
Baron Herbert of Cardiff, Lord Parr; Ros of Kendal; Marmion,
and Saint Quintin; Lord Warden of the Stanneries Governour
Page 141
of Portsmouth;* Knight of the Garter, Chancellour of the Uni∣versity
of Oxford, and lately Lord high Steward of the Kings
Houshold [but not of England.] He married Mary the Eldest
daughter and co-heir of Gilbert Talbot Earl of Shrewsbury,* and
dies without issue; so that his honours descended to Philip Her∣bert
his brother. He supped the night before his death with the
Countesse of Bedford at Bishops-gate upon the day of his birth,
fifty yeers since, from thence he went home to Baynards Castle▪
sitting up as usual, very late▪ for he was a hearty feeder, and
went to bed very well; But not long after he fetcht a deep and
deadly groan, which startled his Lady that lay by, and she not
able to awake him, called for company, who found him speech∣lesse,
and so continued till eight in the morning, and then died,
as a figure flinger had told him many years before.

We are told his Character in a high strain of Magnificence;*
but we may give way to his good commendations in a reason∣able
measure: A proper Person; well set, of graceful deportment;
his minde truly generous, of the ancient stock and manner of
Nobility: His defects, were in letters and Travel; He had onely
the breeding of England, which gave him a conceited dislike of
foraign men, their manners and mode, or of such English that
professed much advantage thereby; so that the Scots at Court
and he were ever separate, and therefore he was onely the old
Courtier, that kept close to the Commonalty, and they to him,
and was therein trusted by his two Soveraigns as not over fur∣nisht
with abilities to be lesse then loyal, which jealous Princes
usually suffered.

In May 29 day,* the Queen was brought to Bed of a Son. Sur∣passing
joy there was of all true hearts and good subjects, and
in Iune the 27. baptized at Saint Iameses with princely Ceremo∣nies,
and named Charles; His Godfathers were the King of
France, and the Prince Elector, represented by the Duke of Le∣nox,
and the Marquesse Hamilton; the Godmother was the Queen
Mother of France, and her Person represented by the Duchesse
of Richmond.* A man would stand amazed to believe that a sort
of pretended sanctified subjects should not desire the King to have
any issue; I have my Author, The Puritan-party, that could not
descern the cause of joy when the Queen was with childe: God
having better provided for us then we were aware, in the hope∣ful
Progeny of the Queen of Bohemia: These men brought in
the Reformed Religion (Presbytery) when it would be un•er∣tain
what Religion the Kings children would follow. And he ob∣serves
to his own knowledge, that when the most of the Parish
gave publique signes of rejoycing with Bonefires, Bell-ringing,
and mutual feasting, onely the Presbyterian or Puritan party (as
he stiles them) were shut up, as on the day of general mourning.

Page 142And it may be remembred, that afterwards as the Kings Issue in∣creased,
the Common Prayer for the Kings onely Sister and her chil∣dren
was left out, and in place thereof a Prayer compiled for preser∣vation
of the Kings Issue; for though the Presbyterians hated the
whole Book, they would not stick to mention the one in their Pray∣er
of the Pulpit, and leave those other out of Gods blessing, till by
express command they were made to conform.

At his Birth there appeared a Star visible,* that very time of the
Day when the King rode to Saint Paul's Church to give thanks to
God for the Queens safe delivery of a Son, upon which occasion
these Verses were then presented.

Rex ubi Paulinas accessit gratus ad aras,

Immicuit medio• lucida stella Polo.

Dic divina mihi tractans aenigmata coeli,

Haec oriens nobis quid sibi stella velit?

Magnus in occiduo Princeps modo nascitur orbe;

Moxque sub eclipsi regna ori•ntis erunt.

When to Paul's Cross the gratefull King drew near,

A shining Star did in the Heavens appear:

Thou that consult'st with divine Mysteries,

Tell me what this bright Comet signifies?

Now is there born a valiant Prince i'th' West,

That shall eclipse the Kingdoms of the East.

But this Star now appearing, some say, was the Planet Venus;
others, Mercury, the Sign of Merlin's Prophecy. The splendour of
the Sun shall languish by the paleness of Mercury, and it shall be
dreadfull to the beholders. Any Planet says the Astrologer within
its Degrees of the Sun is very unfortunate. And Mercury being
the Lord of the Ascendent and Mid-heaven was a chief Signifi∣cator
of the Prince his person, who being afflicted by the presence
of the Sun, yet miraculously God did by his power make this Star
shine bright in a clear Sun-shine day, which was contrary to Na∣ture.

The German▪ Empire much weakned from the former greatness,*
partly by the Popes in Italy advancing themselves and the Papal
Authority, (besides the translation of the Seat to Constantinople)
and much diminished by several pretexts of Provinces, and
Towns, and Kingdoms, have loosened themselves from this great
Body.

But the principal subject of all is drawn from the diversities of
Doctrines, heretofore resolved into two Professions, Roman Catho∣lick,
and the Confession of Auxburgh or Lutheran; with the am∣bition
of the House of Austria, too powerfull both in Spain and the
Page 143Low-cuntreys. The• temperament in Religion was concluded in the
Contract of Passavia, the Protestants to enjoy all their former Ec∣clesiastical
Possessions, and to rest in perpetuity to the Catholicks,
but not performed. And Complaints arising by many of the
States of Germany against the House of Austria, continuing their
greatness about two hundred years in Imperial Dignity, as if here∣ditary:
and having increased Victories, by humbling the King of
Denmark and the Protestant party, chastized Bethlem Gabor, de∣stroyed
the Peasants of Austria, deprived the Prince Palatine of
his States, Mansfield dead, and the Empire at quiet. The Emperour
too much partial to the Catholick Complaints against the Pro∣testants,
concerning their Divisions, in reference to the Composi∣tion
of Passavia, which the Protestant Princes were resolved not to
be wrested from them; and for the maintenance of which, they
were resolved to call in Strangers.

The Emperour the sixth of March, 1629. commands the render
of all Ecclesiastical Goods, taken after the Contract of Passavia.
This Sentence was so hard of digestion to the Protestants, (some∣what
like the Exaction of the Tenth Penny, upo• the Low-countreys
by the Duke d' Alva) that they protest to oppose it, and petition
for Suspension till the Decision of a general Diet at Ratisbone, at
the same time when News came thither of the King of Sweden's
entrance with an Army into Germany, which made the Protestant
Ambassadors peremptory for the Revocation of the former Edict;
and it being refused, they got all away and met at Leipsick. Herein
the Emperour receives his first check, and prosecuted with Confe∣derations
and Leagues, and Strangers called in; the ambition of
Spain was universally canvased; nay, the People in general, Pro∣testant and Papist, were wilde for a change, according to their seve∣ral
self-interests.

The Prince Electour Palatine had invitation to put in his Plea for
his Restauration,* and thither he sends his Agent; not without his
particular address hither to his Uncle King Charls, to countenance
his entertainment at the Diet, with an Ambassadour of his own,
for mediation; and the Imployment fell upon Sir Robert Amstroder
concerning the Pressures and Relief of the Palsgrave, whose Mes∣sage
was in effect.

That nothing could affect his Master the King of Great Brittain
more, than the consideration of the daily calamities undergone by his
Brother in Law the Prince Elector, his Wife and Children. That no
place was more expedient to treat of Recon•iliation and re-establishment
than in the Diet; therefore he made it his most ardent Request to his
Imperial Majesty, that having regard to the many Intercessions of
his late Father, and other Kings and Princes, he would remit the dis∣pleasure
conceived against his Brother, and recall the ProscriptionPage 144
issued out against him. True it was, his Brother had offended, and was
inexcusably guilty, unless the rashness or precipitation of youth may
somewhat plead for him; but others had been as culpable, whom yet his
Imperial Majesty had received into favour. And would he be pleased, to
extend to him the same clemency, it would oblige his Master to de∣monstrations
of deepest gratitude, and raise a glorious emulation in
others, to imitate so excellent a Patern. That the Palsgrave would en∣tertain
this favour with an heart so firmly devoted to his service, as all
the intention of his spirit should be disposed to compensation and repa∣ration
of his former miscarriage. That his Master held nothing so dear,
as the affection of his Imperial Majesty, and establishment of a durable
Peace between them. And as upon all occasions he hath been forward to
represent himself solicitous for it, so at this time he is ready to give
more ample testimony, if his Imperial Majesty be pleased to incline to a
Treaty.

This was fair and full of respect, which gained civilities to the
Ambassadour. But that the present affairs of Germany, which occa∣sioned
the Diet, were so important, as may not admit any foreign
debate, and yet (when opportunity and leisure afforded) the King
of Great Brittain should receive such satisfaction as would be agree∣able
to their honour and assurance, (they hoped) to his content.
And this was all the form and effect of his Ambassie.

Doctor Leighton a Presbyterian Scot,* full of fire, had intituled a
Book, Sions Plea, and dedicated it to the last Parliament, counsel∣ling
them, to make quick work to kill all the Bishops, by smiting them
under the fifth rib. Railing at the Queen, whom he called a Cana∣anite,
and Idolatress. How he might have sped with them then, his
confidence gave him good hopes. But now in power of the King,
he was sentenced in Star-chamber, his Body to be whipt, his Fore∣head
stigmatized, his Ears cropt, and his Nose slit; but though he
escaped out of the Fleet, he was got again by the Warden in Bed∣fordshire,
and these Punishments executed upon him to the full
purpose.

The Peace with Spain was pieced in November,* the same in
effect formerly made up by King Iames and Philip the third; but
for the Palatinate, that the King of Spain should dispose all his in∣terest
in the Emperour towards the Restitution of the Prince
Electour; this was so much as for that present could be gotten;
and as the Kings affairs permitted, more could not be quarrelled,
The end of November, Sunday the 27. proclaimed it in great so∣lemnity,
and two days after sworn unto in the Chapel at White∣hall,
the King and the Spanish Ambassadour entered into their Tra∣versies
whiles an Anthem was sung, and whilest the Dean Dr. Laud,
with three other Bishops went up to the Altar, with a Latine Bible,
upon which the King laid his hand, Secretary Coke having read the
Page 145
Oath, the King kissed the Book, and signed the Articles, which he
delivered up to the Ambassadour, and so passed to the Banquetting-house
to a princely Feast, which the Kings good Friend assures us,
[the Subject paid for, with the aid of an old Prerogative-statute of
Tax for Knighthood]* It was ancient indeed, and from time to time
of all Kings and Sovereigns since Edward the second,* framed then
more for ease of the Subject than profit of that King; then re∣duced
to such to be made Knights, that had twenty pounds per an∣num,
but before that time all men of fifteen pound per annum, were
required to take it. But why it should [ly skulking] it seems to him
onely who devises the matter and the manner. To appear at the
Coronation onely, [Ad arma gerenda, not to be per force Knighted]
as was vulgarly supposed] This vulgar Historian confines us to the
manner, [Every man to receive a Belt and a Surcoat out of the Kings
Wardrobe, and if in four days there were no cause to fight, (without a
Sword it seems) they might take leave and be gone again.] The Sta∣tute
is intituled, Statutum de Militibus.

That our Sovereign Lord the King hath granted, that all such
as ought to be Knights and be not, and have been distrained, to
take upon them that Order, before the Feast of the Nativity of our
Lord, shall have respect to take upon them the foresaid Arms of
Knighthood, untill the Vigil of Saint Hilary, &c. And c•rtainly it
was their quality of thirty pound Rent per annum, a plentifull Re∣venue
in those former times, made them capable, not their sufficien∣cy
of body to bear Arms, when thousands more of less Estates
might be found fitter for fighting. But being in force now, (not∣withstanding
those that refused it) were brought to the Exchequer, I
believe,* above one hundred thousand pounds. And the long Parlia∣ment
that succeeded, to please the People, repealed it. So that all the
advantages he had to help himself were either condemned, as done
against the old Laws of the Land, or else some new Law must be
made to deprive him of the other, that wanting all other means to
support himself, he might be forced upon the Alms of the Parlia∣ment.

The original ground was heretofore, when the Services done by
Ten were taken in kinde, it was thought fit there should be some
way of trial and approbation of those that were bound to such Ser∣vices.
Therefore it was ordained, that such as were to do Knights
service after they came of age, and had possession of their Lands,
and should be made Knights, that is, publickly declared to be fit
for service. Divers Ceremonies and Solemnities were in use for
that purpose, and if by the parties neglect this was not done, he
was punishable by Fine.

There being in those days an ordinary and open way to get
Knighthood, for those which were born to it, &c. The use of this
hath for divers Ages been discontinued, yet there have passed very
Page 146
few Kings, under whom there hath not been these Summons, re∣quiring
those holding Lands of such a value as the Law prescribes,
to appear at the Coronation, or some other great Solemnity, and to
be knighted; so as it is not new in the kinde, nor new in the man∣ner,
nor in excess of it: indeed heretofore the Fines were mode∣rate
in some proportion, and of late to meaner People, In∣holders,
Lease-holders, Copi-holders, Merchants, and others;
scarce any man of value free from it. And the Proceedings out by
good Example, President, or Rule of Justice, by Distresses and
Issues.

The Disease of Europe was now become Martial, War in Italy,
Germany in Bands of old Souldiers, France afraid of a Neighbour∣storm,
hindred all Propositions of Peace; England, besides the ge∣neral
Interest of the Reformed, had the particular of the Pals∣grave;
and always in Mutinies, the States general are most con∣cerned;
the Protestant Princes suppressed; the House of Austria
grown already to heigth, threatned their •uine; nay, the State of
Venice was invited to increase the flame and disorder of this power∣full
Body. So then from North to South, and of each side also, was
Germany beset with Enemies.

It was in Midsummer that Gustavus Adolphus King of Swede de∣scended
into Germany,* invited by themselves, and incited by the
assistance of all the former Princes and States, though slenderly
performed by them all. Much to do he had to finde the cause of a
Quarrel. But Reasons he made and published, which the Emperour
answered, and that sufficiently, as we may conclude in the main,
concerning the Emperours depriving the Dukes of Meckelenburgh
his Kinsmen of their Dutchies. To which he was told, That the Im∣perial
Majesty was not to be controuled at home by foreign Pretences;
His Ears being open to Intercessours, but not to Commands.

His general Pretence was (as he vaunted) to be the defence of
the Protestant Cause and Religion, which produced effects of a cru∣el,
bloudy, and horrid War, there then and other where since; by
the immense ambition of some few persons, whom we may not
name, though their Vice we blame.

The Emperours old General Wallestein Duke of Frithland was at
this Diet, dismissed that Command by the perswasions of the
French and Duke of Bavaria, who had joyned a League defensive
and offensive. And his other General Tilly was turned Beadsman to
his devotions, and happy he had been to have so continued, whilest
he had Fortune his Hand-maid, with as much glory as any Captain
in the World, which he changed, to be conquered. His former
happiness was concluded in these, That he heard Mass daily, never tou∣ched
a Woman, never lost a Battel. But he is wrought upon even by
their Priests, and prepares for War.

His first Master-piece was, by cunning not force; for finding
Page 147Magdeburgh an Emperial rich Town of Saxony in some distraction
then, which brought such distraction after, as no History can para∣lel.
The difference proceeded from their first choyce of Augustus
(Son to the Elector of Saxony) for their Administrator;* But the
Emperour and Pope commended the Arch Duke Leop•old, now Go∣vernour
of the Low Countreys. The Town take parts, and are ap∣peased
by Wallenstens power, who turned the Town into a Garison,
and the forfeit of 150. thousand Rix Dollers.

Then Leopold presses further with very high demands, which
Christian of Brandenburgh and the Duke of Saxony interpose as
therein concerned. Brandenburgh enters the Town disguised, and
offers his and the King of Swedens protection, who is received, o∣pening
his passage into Pomerania and Meckelendburgh, which he
soon mastered. And thus busied abroad, he leaves Brandenburgh,
to rejoyce at his own designe, when Poperheim posts thither, makes
havock of all before him, and stops the Fox in his hole, and be∣sieges
Magdeburgh December 1630. and thither comes Tilly, and
whilst they melt themselves at Magdeburgh,*Gustave marches up
the Oder, and beats the Emperialist at Frankfurt, slew 3000, and
forced the rest to pace it to Silesia, and so he marches to succour
the besieged.

The Duke of Saxony, head of the Protestants Assembly at Leip∣sick, and confederate to succour Magdenburgh, to joyn with Swede,
and to resist the Emperour; and Gustave to be Captain General for
them all, and so forfeited as you have heard before, with all the con∣federate
foreign Princes and States, promising to himself the Em∣pire
if but fortunate in one Battel.

Papenheim and Tilly,* though beaten abroad, yet ply their siege;
mastered all the out-works, forced into the Town, then repulsed,
and on again; fired the first house, and in four hours He consu∣med
all to ashes, and the people to death: the reproach of Tilly
for so much innocent blood. And having done there, he marches
into Saxony, being beaten at Werben: the confederates resolve to
face him, who having taken the Town of Leipsick, encamped hard
by, and so gives occasion to fight a Battel, the hazzard of Two E∣lectoral
Caps the liberty of Germany, the hopes of the Catholiques
the effects so bloudy, as made the old Banes to fly for it.

But this Battel we must refer to its time and place the next year,
and see what is done in England.

This foreign newes flew hither; which hastened forward the
Marquesse Hamilton in his intended designe,* to wait upon that
Kings fortunes; That was his outward aim, though his ambition
had an eye homeward in that undertaking; for he having sent thi∣ther
David Ramsey a Gentleman of the Kings privy Chamber, a
most turbulent boutefeau (Sr. Iames and Alexander Hamilton, and
Robert Meldram, and also to endear the Marquesse to the Scots Offi∣cers
Page 148
in that Army) to proffer his service to the King, with the aid
of some Regiments of foot. This madman, more like an Ambas∣sadour
from a great Prince, then a Messenger from a Peer, took his
place before the Lord Rey his Countreyman, and a Colonel in Arms,
who to honour him the more, procured the other Scots Officers to
make addresses, and to attend him: discovering thereby that the
Marquesse his aim was of deeper consequence, not to fight under the
Swede: And following his apprehension with prudent observati∣ons,
he won upon Rams•y, to history out the mystery of the Mar∣quesses
designe, By this means to raise forces under a formal colour,
but in earnest, to make himself King of Scotland, and thereof, he
draws a Pedigree of his Right and Title from King Iames the first,
and in several froliques of mirth and wine, to ascribe unto him So∣veraignty,
Of which Rey returning, into England, told it to the
Lord Uchiltry (yet living) who forthwith acquainted the Lord
Treasurer Weston, and he the King.

And at the same time Major Borthick accused the said Meldram,
to have under oath of secrecy, communicated to him the whole de∣signe,
the grounds and reasons; which he justified before the King
and Councel, and Meldram faintly denied, but was committed
to the Fleet prisoner two years, and then released by the Mar∣quesse.

Some time before this discovery, S. William Elphiston Cup-bearer
to the King, was sent over Convoy to the King of Denmark, and with
him, the Marquesse would enforce a companion, Meldram, who had
private Instrustions to the principal Scots officers in the armies, and
thereby more respected then the Kings Messenger Elphiston; but at
their return to Gravesend, a Scots man dependant of the Marquesse,
gave Intelligence to Meldram that all was discovered, but was
imboldned to come to Court, where he was accused.

The Lord Uchiltry for reporting the discovery to Weston, was
afterwards sent prisoner to Scotland, where the Marquesses power was
more dreaded, and there coming to examination and tryal, Uchel∣try
spake out so plainly, but without further hearing, he was con∣veyed
close prisoner to the Castle of Blacknesse, where he remained
till the English set him free.

Meldram was after preferred Secretary to General Lesly at New-Castle,
Alexander Hamilton with a pension of 500 l. and after∣wards
General of the Covenanters Artillery.

But as to the Marquesse and his small Army, impoysoned with
secret Treasons at home, got over to the King of Swede, but so di∣stressed
with hunger, and want of all necessaries for War, that the
Marquesse being neglected, and his forces falling to decay, he re∣turned
home again, till some other designe might set up his Trea∣sons
again.

Having much to say concerning Non-conformists,* generally noted
Page 149
under the Title Puritan, as also some good men, being scandalously
included, We shall therefore distinguish his Name, render his Es∣ence,
in the very property, and whose several kindes Essentially
differ.

The Name (Puritan) is ambiguous, so it is falacious. The
good Puritans are pure in heart, and so blessed, that they shall see
God.

The evil Puritans desire to seem to be so, but in their Doctrine
and Discipline are the underminers of our True, Protestant, Re∣verend
Church.

The Essential definition of him is, A Protestant Non conformist:
A Protestant is his Genus, his kinde of being: A Non-conformist, his
differentia, his essential difference or quality.

Non-conformist, contradictist to the Scripture sence, in three things.
The first is in the 39. Articles of our Churches Reformed Faith.
Secondly, Our Common Prayer Book. Thirdly, The Canons of
our Church. All which three, are contained in the deduceable
sence of holy Scripture. The several Articles which he opposeth,
are the 3. 6. 9. 16. 17. 20. 21. 23. 26. 27. 33. 35. 36. 37. 38. 39. The se∣lected
Prayers in the Common Prayer Book he rejecteth, which
were collected (though corrected and purged) out of the Masse
book. Against the several Canons from the 1. to the 15. 24. 29.
30. 31. 48. 49. from 54. to 58. 60. 61. 73. 127.

But who is this Puritan? Mr, Rogers in his Preface to the 39.
Article saith, that since the suppression of Puritans by Arch-Bishops,
Parker, Grindal and Whitguift, none will seem to be such. Read
the Survay of the pretended holy Discipline, and here it is evi∣dent,
that himself knows not what he is, nor what he would
be.

The Species, Specifical kinds of this Puritan are numbred. First,
The Perfectist. Secondly, the factious Sermonist. Thirdly, the Se∣peratist.
Fourthly, the Anabaptist. Fifthly, the Brownist. Sixthly,
Loves familist. Seventhly, the Precisian. Eighthly, the Sabbatari∣an.
Ninthly, the Antidisciplinarian. Tenthly, presuming Predestina∣tists.
Every one of them differing in his proper essential quality:
yet the same subject of inhesion may be all Ten.

1. The Perfectist: His purenesse is continuata perseverandi
actio significans, never to sin after Baptism: the Novatian Catharist,
and this man sins against the 16. Article.

2. The factious Sermonist, He serves God with sermons and ex∣temporary
prayers, according to his suppositious Iusjuration; This pro∣fessor
is against the 26. Article: and his opinion is, that Preaching
is better then Prayer.

Page 1503. The Separatist is the Pharisee, That onely he is Elect, Rege∣nerate
and Faithful, all others not so, are Reprobates, and therefore
believes, our Churches regeneration is by infusion of Grace, by sow∣ing
the good seed. But to answer him in this, Let all Christians re∣ligiously
pray and live according to the grace of Restitution, and
humbly submit their judgements concerning the secresie of personal E∣lection,
and so this man sins against the 17. Article.

4 The Anabaptist, His purenesse is, a supposed birth without Origi∣nal
sin, and his Tenet, that Infants must not be baptized; and this
believer opposeth the 9. and 27. Articles.

5. The Brownists purenesse is, to serve God in Woods and Fields,
and his opinion is, that Idolatry cannot be reformed without pulling
down of Churches. Christ indeed whipt the buyers and sellers out
of the Temple, though it was prophaned, yet without any pulling down;
and this man is against the 35. Article.

6. Loves familist, serves God as well at his neighbours charge,
as at his own, omnia sunt communia, the things which they pos∣sesse
are not their own, but all are Common: He teacheth, that unlaw∣ful
swearing is worse than murther; and this is against the 39.
Article.

7. The Precisian will not swear before a Magistrate; That un∣lawful
swearing is a greater sin than murther. God indeed is great∣er
then man; here is the compare; but then the effect, destructive,
is greater, by murther, God commands that the murtherer die, blood
for blood, he deals not so severely with the swearer. See the 39.
Article.

8 The Sabbatarian preaches down Holy dayes; preaching, that the
Instrumental directing cause, to keep holy the sabbath day; he makes
to be the keeping holy the sabbath. But Gods holy Worship, prayer, is
keeping holy the sabbath day, for preaching the holy direction, teach∣eth
holy worship, prayer, to be the holy practise of that day, to praise
the Lord for our Redemption, the sole principal end of preaching on
the Lords day. His preaching is a Sylva synonymorum, Tautolo∣gies,
Iterations; His praying much erroneous; and this is against the
35. Article.

9. The Anti-disciplinarian is above the Kings supremacy, Im∣perious
Imagination, his highnesse is the Churches greatest Authority;
and he saith this is as good a rule to know the reformed true faith,
is the holy Writ, He is a strict observer of the Law; therefore he
accounts it the best Religion; His tenet is, That Kings must be
Page 151
subject to the Puritan; To the Puritans Presbyters Censure, sub∣mit
their Scepters, throw down their Crowns, lick up the dust of
their feet. This Mr. Rogers in his eleventh page of his Preface
to the 39. Articles; And T. Cartwright teacheth in his Reply, page
1080. And here the Oaths of Supremacy and Allegiance are bro∣ken;
against the 21. Article: His tenet, that all Priests should be
equal; See Varellus and Vivetus sermons, two Geneva Presbyters;
against the •3. 33. and 36. Articles, and against the twentieth
Article.

10. The presuming Predestinatist hath an inspired knowledge
to be saved by Gods absolute Election, as sure as it were now in
Heaven; no life in him, but Gods essential glory; against the 17.
Article, and the 3. Article.

Thus was it then, amongst us Reformed, and since it hath in∣creased
ten times worse; But the Papist is not clear from Crimes,
schismes and sins.

The contest between Iesuites Priests and Secular Priests* have
evermore their debates, and now grounded upon this occasion.
Richard Smith, titular Bishop of Calcedon, his honour there in
Greece, but his profit from England over all the Romish Catho∣licques,
especially for ordaining of Priests and confirmations of per∣sons
Baptized; But when he came hither, we cannot finde, till
now we have caught him here; Yet Pope Gregory the thirteenth
delegated one William Bishop to Calcedon, who died 1624. Af∣ter
him succeeded another (by Mission of Urbane the eighth, 1625.)
this Richard Smith to the same Title: But why to a foreign Title,
and not at as easie a rate to English, as in Ireland, he had, to all Sees
there? the reason is, He had in Ireland a Counter-party of Peo∣ple,
for Number and Quality in every Diocesse and Parish; not
so in England, where it had been ridiculous in the Granter, and
dangerous in the Accepter. To oppose his power, up starts Ni∣cholas
Smith a Regular, in malice to his advancement, and quar∣relled
also against Doctor Kelson President of the Colledge of
Doway, who had printed a Treatise of the dignity and necessity
of Bishop and secular Clergy.

Nicholas Smith's Reasons were for the Regulars: first such Bi∣shops
uselesse in England in times of persecution, Either for Or∣dination,
which might be supplied by foreign Bishops: Or Con∣firmation
of children, which any Priest might perform by Com∣mission
from the Pope.

Secondly, Burthensom to the already pressures of the English
Catholicques. And Thirdly, the Person of Calcedon, not lawful∣ly
called.

Page 152Kelson undertakes Answers to all these, and the Insolency of the
Regulars seemed more secular. And indeed the Irish Regular ex∣ceeded
such in England; maintaining, That the superiours of Regu∣lars
were more worthy than Bishops, which caused the Doctors of
Sorborn in Paris to censure the Proposition, and the Arch-Bi∣shop
of Paris, to condemn Nicholas Smiths Book, and other Tra∣ctates
of that sense.

But Bishop Smith would take upon him to approve of such Re∣gulars
Priests as were to be constant Confessors, which the Jesu∣ites
opposed as an usurpation upon them; And being the better
Polititians, contrive a Declaration under the name of the most
noble and eminent Catholiques, against his pretended Authority;
which Declaration was offered to the Spanish Ambassadour, Don
Carlos de Coloma, together with the Kings Proclamations, to
ferret his person, He declined both his power and presence to
seek safety in France. The Bishop fled, the dogs bark. Knot
vice provincial of the English Jesuites, and Flood another of St.
Omers, undertake him and Kelson also, but were censured and si∣lenced; though not their several factions unto this day.

But this bickering is lodged under the product of the peace
with Spain,* as if to encourage the Catholiques to rant it in
Ireland also towards a Toleration. The Lords Justices at Dublin,
at Church in one Parish, the Priests at Masse in another, who
were seized by the Arch-Bishop, and Major, and all the City
Officers, their Trinkets taken away, Images hewen down, the
Priests and Fryers delivered up to the Souldiers, and yet rescu∣ed
by the people, from whom a strong power enforced them,
and eight Popish Aldermen clapt in prison for being remisse to
attend their Major; upon which mis-behaviour and mutiny,
fifteen Houses were seized to the Kings use, and the Fryers and
Priests persecuted, and Two of them to save publique Executi∣on,
hang'd themselves in their hose-garters.

The Earl of Essex* would needs try Mastery with a fresh Mi∣stresse;
being over born by his first Wife, as their story is truly
told in the life of King Iames, 18. years since. He then but
a stripling, but ever since getting strength, and being falsely
fram'd for Martial Exploits in the Low-Conntries, where he Di∣sciplin'd
himself, but without any high renown, or feats of Arms,
or any extraordinary proofs of his manhood, had a strong minde
to a second Marriage, and as if recovered of his former Impo∣tency,
to exercise himself upon tryal with Betty Paulet (as they
called her) daughter she was indeed, of a Knight, extracted from
that Nobility, of the Marquesse of Winchester, but by what ven∣ture
of descent we need not enquire. She was pretty, but poor,
Beauty hath price enough; and a great portion would not have
him. In March he was Married, but being mistaken in his own
Page 153
abilities of the Bed,* having it seems not excercised that kinde of
Low Countreys manhood, found himself failing, and so retired
out of Town, as to give occasion for others to court his Countess,
and his advantage of a second Divorce; and in truth he was easily
drawn thereto by such as hung upon him in former time; his Re∣venue
now divided into Families, Wife and Women-creatures
shared the less to his Dependants.

Their Design was to watch their Countess, who was wanton
enough for such a Husband, and by a Ladder to her Chamber-win∣dow
saw so much, as forcing the Door, Master Udal was found sit∣ting
upon her Bed-side very late, unbraced with heat, as in pursuit
of her Sister, who in merriment, after some questions, he had been
commanded to kiss her, she being shadowed in the Ladies Cham∣ber,
where he went to seek her: but the conclusion was Divorce,
though her innocency was pleaded and sealed with all possible pro∣testations,
and so generally believed, untill she proved with childe;
and yet the Earl was so wise as to father it. Marry then the Moon∣calf
must fall at the minute of his own account, which no doubt
happened just with the birth of the Baby a jolly Boy, and so as best
right for him to nestle, who seized it from the Mother, never like to
see it long alive; nor what became of it we need not doubt.

But why these his dishonours were not more [resented at Court
agreeable to his Extraction] in a prophetick relation to [all King
Charls his future mishaps] is more of the Authours wonder than I
can make of it; and concludes, that he became the Head of an
Army, giving the King Battel in a Pitch F•eld partly upon the score
of those indignities before, which he supposes was charged on the
Kings account.

It was in Anno 1627. Therefore Feoffees were legally intrusted
to purchase in the Impropriations* with their own and other good
mens money, and with the profit to maintain a constant preaching
Ministery, where the Word was wanting. They consisted of 4. Divines
to perswade the conscience, 4. Lawyers for the Conveyances,
and four Citizens, for no other end but their money. There was no
need of Captains, for Captain Michael's Sword was then sheathed.

There are in England 9284. Parish-churches endowed with Glebe
and Tithes. But 3845. were either appropriated to the Clergy, or
impropriated (as Lay-fines) to private persons, which latter these
Feoffees endeavoured to redeem, and might have done it in fifty
years, by the large summs soon advanced: and no wonder, the sub∣tilty
was not then discerned, for in time the Purchasers would be∣come
the prime Patrons, for number, and greatness of Benefices,
multiply their dependence, and increase non-conformity; and
therefore the Attorney General Noy exhibited a Bill in the Exche∣quer
to overthrow their Apocrypha incorporatum.

First, Breach of Trust, for erecting a Morning Lecture at St. An∣tholines,
Page 154
London, (the Land of Goshen) and not in other places far
distant, where Souls famished for want of Food.

Secondly, preferred Non-conformists, and so their proceedings
were censured, as dangerous to the Church and State, pronounced
illegal, and dissolved, and their money confiscate to the King,
which yet of late was accounted a pious Project.

Good men and bad are Examples fit for History, the one to fol∣low,
these to shun; And the man of the first rank was Mervin Lord
Audley, Earl of Castlehaven,* married to a second Wife the Daughter
of the old Countess of Derby, and Widow of the Lord Chandos, by
whom she had a Daughter married to the Lord Audley the Earls
eldest Son.

This Earl, upon Petition of his own Son and Heir the Lord Aud∣ley,
was committed in December last, and indicted at Salisbury, the
County of his abode, the 25. of March, the first day of this year,
1631. accused for causing one Skipwith, of mean extraction, and
his Servant, advanced by him to great preferment, to assist him to ly
with his Countess, and to cuckold his Son Audley, the Earl assisting,
and to hold his Wife whilest Brodway did ravish her: and for act∣ing
Sodomy upon Brodway and Fitz Patrick his Servants: a strange
kinde of hideous monstrous quality in the sin of this Earl, en∣forcing
others to that wickedness wherein himself had no tempta∣tion
for his excuse, or inclination to the action, which is the begin∣ing
of sin; no fruits or sensual pleasure for the present, which is
the act in sin; no advance or profit in the future, which is a reward
to a mans self of his sin. The uncouth baseness of the Rape, the
Master to serve the Servants; to cuckold himself, the highest hor∣ridity
of a Wittal; the Husband to ravish his own Wife; nay, to
commit a Rape upon himself, (being both one) a sin without former
President, or future belief; so monstrous in the manner, so exe∣crable
in the end. The onely man of Nobility of infamous note
that suffered judicial Execution by this King; for I reckon not the
Earl of Strafford under that notion,

These Crimes are bad enough, we need not devise any more,
[that he in Prison impudently told some Lords,*his whole delight was to
damn Souls, by inticing men the surest way to effect it] which hath no
credit, and we shall lodg no other upon him but truths; for certainly
had he said this before his Trial, it might have been remembred as
all circumstances were then, to advance his guilt. And it becomes
an Historian in dubious relations to admit the most Christian and
charitable, being more unlawfull to deceive Posterity by feigned
narrative, than to abuse a Judg by false Witness.

But of the other he was found guilty by Grand Inquest, and so
his cause put over to the Kings Bench, and his Person sent to the
Tower.

The manner of his Trial for Life was by a Court of High Com∣mission,Page 155
delegated to some principal Person as chief Iudg, consti∣tuted
with a Power as being next to the King. In some sort match∣ing
the Ephory amongst the Lacedemonians, and therefore not to be
longer intrusted than for the time of Trial; for the business being
done, he breaks his Staff, the Verge of his Power and Authority.
And Thomas Lord Coventry Lord Keeper of the Great Seal was by
Patent of the thirteenth of April, 1631. commissioned Lord High
Steward of England, for the Day, being the five and twentieth of
April. And because it was the first and last Commission of this na∣ture
by this King, we shall not spare the particular Narrative, to
rectifie mis-reports of many others herein.

It was at the Kings Bench in Westminster-hall,* where a Theatre was
erected, in height equal with the Bench, covered over with green
Cloth. In the upper end was placed the Tribunal Chair of State
for the High Steward; on either side the Peers of the Realm, and
under them the Iudges; in the lower end against the State were
the Kings learned Council; and at their backs two Pews lifted up
to face the Court for the Prisoner and his Keeper; and in the midst
of the Court a place of descension for the Clerk of the Crown and his
Assistant; where they all met between eight and nine of the Clock
that Morning.

First, the Clerk of the Crown and the Iudges, the Lieutenant of
the Tower and the Prisoner, (retiring into a Room near hand;) then
the Peers seven and twenty in number, those of the Garter order
wearing their Coller of Esses about their neck, the chiefest of them
were, Weston Lord Treasurer, Earl of Manchester Lord Privy Seal,
Arundel Earl Marshall of England, and so the rest.

Then enters the Lord High Steward his Grace, in a black Velvet
Gown trimm'd with Gold Buttons and Lace, before him 7. Maces
of State, born by the Serjeants at Arms, attended by Sir Io: Bur∣roughs
Garter principal King of Arms, and Maxwel Usher of the
Black Rod.

The Judges* Assistants for Counsel in case of Law, were Sir Ni∣cholas
Hide Chief Justice of the Kings Bench, Sir Thomas Richard∣son
Chief Justice of the Common Pleas, Sir Humphrey Davenport
Chief Baron of the Exchequer, and Baron Denham; four Judges,
Iones, Hutton, Whitlock, and Crook. The learned Council were Sir
Robert Heath
Attorney General, Sir Richard Chelton Solicitor Ge∣neral,
Sir Io: Finch the Queens Attorney General, and Sir Thomas.
Crew Serjeant at Law, Sir Thomas Fanshaw Clerk of the Crown, and
Keeling his Assistant.

The Clerk of the Crown presented his Grace with the Patent of
his Place of Lord High Steward of England. After O yes! he de∣livered
the Patent to the Clerk of the Crown, who read it, and re∣turned
it back. The Black Rod kneeling down presented him with
the White Staff or Verge of State. After a second. O yes! his
Page 156
Grace gave leave to the Peers to be covered, and Proclamation
made, That the Judges should bring in (as by Writ commanded)
all the Records touching the Earls Arraignment, and the Peers an∣swered
particularly to their several names. After the third O yes!
the Lieutenant of the Tower brought in his Prisoner into their
powers, and his Warrant being read, his Grace addressed himself to
the Peers.

My Lord Audley,*(said he) (for so he stiled him as a Baron of
England, and not by his Creation of Earl Castlehaven, being a for∣reign
Title of Ireland, by which Title onely he could not be tried
by the Peers) the Kings Majesty is given to understand both by report
and also by Verdict of divers Gentlemen of quality in your County, that
you stand impeached of sundry Crimes of a most high and hainous na∣ture:
and therefore he brings you this day to trial, doing therein like the
Almighty King of Kings, (in the eighteenth of Genesis) who went
down to see, whether the sins of the Sons of Sodome and Gomorrah
were so grievous, as the cry of them that came before him. And
Kings on Earth can have no better Patern to follow, than that of the
King of Heaven: and so hath summoned by special command these your
Peers, either to acquit or condemn you; they being so noble and so just,
so indifferent Iudges: for his Majesty desires that your Trial should be
as equal and upright as Iustice it self: wherefore you may speak boldly
and confidently without fear, to clear your self, and so to be set free; but
if otherwise your own conscience accuse you, give the honour to God and
the King, by confessing the truth, without shifts or subtilties against it,
which are but Consilia adversus Dominum.

May it please your Grace, (said Audley)* I have stood committed close
Prisoner six moneths, without Friends or Counsel, deprived of the know∣ledg
of the particular circumstances of the Crimes laid to my charge,
unskilfull of the advantages or disadvantages of Law, and but weak
to plead at the best; and therefore desire liberty of Counsel to plead
for me.

Your long Imprisonment (said his Grace) hath been rather a favour
for conveniency to bethink your self: and you shall have all possible fa∣vour
in this your first demand, in which the Iudges shall satisfie you, as
in all other your de•ires in the prosecution of your Trial.

The Judges gave opinion, that in principal Causes, Counsel is
not to be allowed for matter of Fact, but for matter of Law it
may.

His Grace commanded the Clerk of the Crown to reade his In∣dictments,* being three in number.

Page 157The first, for a Rape, by assisting Brodway his own Servant to ra∣vish
his Wife the Countess of Castlehaven.

The other two, for Sodomy committed on the Body of Brodway and
on Fitz Patrick his Footman.

To which he pleaded, Not guilty, &c.

And therefore his Grace said thus to the Peers.

My Lords, the Prisoner is indicted of Rape and Sodomy, and pleads
Not guilty: My duty is to charge you with the Trial, Yours to judg.
The Cause may move pity in some, detestation in all, but neither of them
may be put in the Scale of Iustice, for a Grain on either side sways the
Ballance. Let Reason rule your affections, your heads, your hearts, to
heed attentively, and weigh equally. In the right course the Iudges will
direct you, if doubts arise. Ye are not sworn how to proceed, the Law
supposeth your integrity to Iustice, which others are compelled unto by
Oath. And so God direct you.

Crew opened the Indictments, and so was seconded, and by turns
all the other, but the Attorney General proceeded in brief; that the
Crimes were far more base and beastly than any Poet invented, or
History ever mentioned. Suetonius indeed sets out the Lives of
Heathen Emperours, whose Sovereignty had no Law to question
their Power, nor Religion to bound their wills from acting any
Crimes. And here ravelling into his former debauched life and pro∣fession
of Papistry, digressing from the matter of the Indictments,
the Prisoner desired that his Religion, nor other circumstances not
conducing to his crimes charged, might be spared. But he was
told to forbear to interrupt the Council, till the time fitting to make
answer.

And so the Attorney went on with his Religion,* bred up a Pro∣testant,
and after fell to Papistry, for more liberty in evil; or rather
of both Professions, or of either, or of none at all. Cor quod ingre∣ditur
duas vias non habet successum. In the morning at a Mass, after∣noon
at a Sermon; believing in God thus basely, God left him at
the last to his lusts, and so to Atheism, to work wickedness without
hope of Heaven or horrour of Hell.

His moral actions* beyong imagination wicked; for though he
married this Lady, as noble in birth, as great in fortune; so soon as
that solemnity was done, and she in Bed, he presents Amptil his Page
to her Person, and unchaste imbracements, reasoning with Scri∣pture,
that her Body now made subject unto him, and so at his com∣mand;
if to evil, not her fault, let her sin ly at his door: but
she refusing, he left her at this time; and takes Amptil whom he

Page 158That the Kings Majesty had committed the Trial of the business to
your Grace my Lord High Constable, the Earl Marshal, and this
Court,* which course was warrantable by the Laws of other Nations,
and also by our own, who have used the same manner of Trial.

That our Law admitted sundry Proofs for Treason, which in other
matters it did not: That all Subjects were bound to discover Trea∣sons:
and cited two ancient Civilians, Hieronymus and Tiberius,
who gave their Reasons for this kinde of Trial. And he mentioned sun∣dry
Records of our own Chronicles and Examples herein, as the
Duke of Norfolk combating against the Duke of Hartford in Hen∣ry
4. his time. Jo: Ely and William Scroop against Ballamon at
Burdeaux, the King being there. The Lord Morley impeached Moun∣tague
Earl of Salisbury. And that Thomas of Walsingham and
Thomas of Woodstock in their learned Writings expressed sundry
Presidents for this manner of Proceeding; wishing the Court in Gods
Name to go on to the Trial, and the Appellant to give in his Evi∣dence.

Then the Appellant came up upon the Table, to whom the Earl
Marshal delivered the Petition, which he had the day before exhi∣bited
to the King. And the Defendant being also called up, the Pe∣tition
was read, which was in effect, That he having accused Ramsey
of Treason, and also Meldram his Kinsman, and of Confederacy,
against whom Captain Nothwick was witness, therefore had desired
that the Court would proceed against Meldram first.

But he was told by the Court, that their Cases differing, the Ap∣pellant
was ordered to deliver in his Charge against the Defendant,
which he did, in writing by Bill, containing sundry Particulars, viz.

That in May last in the Low-countreys,*Ramsey complained to
him against the Court of England. That the matters of Church and
State was so out of frame as must tend to a change, if not desola∣tion.

That thereforefore he had abandoned the Kingdom, to live where
now he was, and to expect a mutation forthwith, to which end he had
brought present Moneys to maintain him at six pounds a day for three
years. That Marqucss Hamilton had a great Army promised to him,
for pay whereof the King had given in hand ten thousand pound, and all
the Wine Customes in Scotland for sixteen years, presently to be sold
for the Armies subsistence. And that he staid but for Ammunition and
Powder to come over, for which his Lordship was to mediate with his
Majesty of Sweden and the States, and then link themselves together,
of whose minde Rey should know hereafter.

That their Friends in Scotland had gotten therefore Arms and
Powder out of England, and that what he should procure in HollandPage 167
was to be brought over by the Marquess; and that all Scotland were
sure to them except Three.

That France and Spain thirsted for England, but Hamilton would
defeat them for himself. His onely fear was of Denmark, where he
meant to land, and either to take him off, or make a party.

That afterwards at Amsterdam, Ramsey with Alexander Hamil∣ton
solicited him the Lord Rey to be true to them, and to be of their
Council, though as yet they durst not reveal too much of Hamilton's se∣crets,
but if he repaired to England, he would intrust him with Letters;
and that his Brother in Law Sea-port knew all.

This being the effect of the Charge. He added,

That if Ramsey would deny it, he was a Villain and a Traitour,
which he would make good. And therewith cast him his Clove.

Ramsey denied all, and said, Rey was a Liar, a barbarous Villain,
and threw down his Glove, protesting, to gar him dy for it, if he had
had him in place for that purpose.

Rey was temperate, without any passion, but smiling, replied,
Mr. Ramsey, we will not contend here. Answer to my Bill.

Then Ramsey offered some Reasons of the impossibility of the
Charge, the slender Numbers of men from England, but six thousand
raw Souldiers, against three Kingdoms, whom the first Proclamation
might dissipate. That the Marquess was neither so wicked; nor weak in
judgment: and if he should conceit to surprize the King, what hope
had he against his Children and Kindred? And therefore (said he) my
Lord Rey is a barbarous Villain, and a Liar, and he will gar him dy for
it, or lose his dearest bloud.

He was interrupted by the Earl Marshal, telling him, he must not
stand upon conjectures, but answer the Bill of Form according to Law,
and was advised to take counsel therein.

Then Ramsey in general acknowledged all the particular circum∣stances
of time and place alleged by Rey, and the discourse to that
effect, but concluded, that no Treason was intended or uttered, and
craved Counsel to answer, which was granted.

And so the Court adjourned till the fifth of December, but upon
a fresh Arrest by the Earl Marshal they were to put in Bail for Ap∣pearance,
which were the old Security; and Ramsey ordered to an∣swer
upon Oath. At which Day appearing, the fame of the Cause
brought thither such a crowd of People as was not imaginable.

Page 168Rey entered as before in manner and habit: but Ramsey was new
suited in black Satten, and presented his Answer in writing to this
effect:

That having well considered the time,*place, and communication with
the Lord Rey beyond the Seas, (as before urged) he confesses;

That Rey demanded of him, whether the Marquess Hamilton in∣tended
to come over and follow the Wars? He said; Yes. And told
him of his Forces six thousand men, and of the ten thousand pounds in
money, and Wine-customes in Scotland, which he would selt to main∣tain
the Army, and that he would come so provided with Ammunition,
that being joyned with his Friends he valued no Enemy. Upon which
Rey replied, that his own two Regiments should wait upon him: but the
place of these Forces to meet was at Sea, and there to receive directions
from the King of Swede, where to rendezvouz. Upon which Rey said,
that his Life and Fortunes should wait on the Marquess; who being
told of his friendship, wrote a Letter to Rey, which Ramsey delivered,
in effect, that Rey would get some Ammunition from the King of
Swede, which was wanting. And that, speaking in general of matters
amiss in England, Rey answered, God amend all. To whom Ramsey
replied, By God Donnold, we must help him to amend all. And to all
the other matters and things he utterly denies, and craves revenge upon
Rey's person by dint of Sword.

Then Doctor Eden* of Council for Ramsey spake to the Court,
That being assigned his Council, his opinion was, that the Defendant
might decline the Combate, and reply to the Appellant's Bill in brief,
with these Reasons:

First, that by the words in the Bill, No man can be charged a Traitor by
one that is guilty in his own particular, and so is not tied to be De∣fendant,
nor to answer such a Bill.

Secondly, the incertainty and doubtfulness of the words in the Charge;
so that till the Court doth censure them to be treasonable, the De∣fendant
is not tied to answer.

Thirdly, the Appellant refers the Combate till the last, if he cannot in
the mean time prove the Charge by any other ways; then he offers to
make it good by his Body. So then, the Defendant may forbear his
Answer, and decline the Combate.

And now my Lords, (said he) I humbly shall acquaint you with the
Defendants answer to me in private, which was,

That though in Law he might, yet in honour and innocency he would
not, decline the Combate, but being his own consent, his Advocate hath
the less to say for him. And so time was given for Rey's Replication
till Friday after.

Page 169Reys Councel moved, whereas Dr. Eden had excepted at some
words in the charge, he answered,* that whoever was accused of Trea∣son,
was not to insist, how polluted the answer was, but how to
approve and clear himself: Then to refer the Combate to the last,
was well done, ultimum refugium, to expose his life, for God, the
King and his Countrey.

This Speech being somewhat peremtory,* and directory to the
Court, he was told,

That the Court needed not his direction, as to the Tryall of
Combate, their wisdoms would consider of that when it was time;
and so the Court adjourned, both parties being admitted to have
common Lawyers; but to plead onely by Civilians.

This day come, Rey appears as before; But Ramsey in a new
suit, of Ash-colour cloth, opened with scarlet colour, the cloke scar∣let
cloth, lined with ash coloured velvet, and the whole suit and cloke
overlaid with silver and Sky coloured lace.

The former proceedings were read by the Register;* and there∣upon
the Appellants Replication presented to the High Constable:
in effect.

That Ramsey in his answer, had cunningly slipt over a part of
the charge, which was, that the Lord Rey protested, he was not inga∣ged
in Wars, for want of subsistence, and therefore would not haz∣zard
in any designe, without sure knowledge, upon which words,
depends much of the matter and main of that part of the Bill. And
so ripping up the several charges of the Bill, the strength, reasons,
and likelihood, and the defendants defects in not clearing the chief
points, they went on with the Councel.

It was his part to inforce the charge against Ramsey to this
effect.

He observed,* That the first day, Ramsey denied all the charge,
whilest he stood upon positive resolution, but afterwards his
Councel brought him to particulars and taught him to Answer
superficially; first he knew nothing, and yet now so much.

No doubt there was some stranger enterprize by the Marquesse
Hamilton, then to serve the King of Swede, by Ramseys professing
that Hamilton was a Protestant, and bore Arms for Religion, not
caring with whom to grapple; from hence observing, That they
intended somewhat to attempt of themselves. Ramsey stiled the
Marquesse his Master in discourse, and in many of his Letters pro∣duced,
much of the discovery by Rey, was to fish out of RamseyPage 170
the truth of his doubtful words; How unlikely it was that Rey
having two Regiments of old Souldiers, Captain of the King of
Swedes Dragoons in good pay for all, should offer to serve Hamil∣ton
who was to be commanded by the King.

And that Ramsey might decline the Combate, or forbear answer∣ing
till the last, was a strange opinion of Councel; because, combate
was to be reserved till all other means of discovery fayled, and
therefore Rey his reasons, were supplimental proofs; and reque∣sting
Meldrams testimony; but however he was now ready, if
the Court thinks fit to give the Combate presently.

And concluded with an example in case of Murther. Two men
fight in secret, the one is slain, the other flies, and though with∣out
any witnesse of the fact, his seeking to escape condemns him
guilty. So Ramsey having been accused of Treason above three
Moneths by the Lord Rey, and both confined, Ramsey dispairing
of his cause, seeks his flight from Justice by sending to Rey a
private challenger, being a sufficient conviction in Law, as by anci∣ent
Presidents in this Court: viz. Kiteles, after an Appeal, seems a
challenger to Scroop, and was therefore adjudged guilty.

Doctor Duck Answered to all. That first, It was prudence for
Ramsey* to answer in general Negatively, having been newly lan∣ded
from Sea; and might be excused till time and consideration,
to refresh his memory, being not upon Oath; And as yet, the
defendant need not answer perfectly, till further time and favour,
to view the Exhibits in Court by copies, which he desires.

And directly urged against the Lord Reys Replic•tion, not to
be allowed; Because, Rey referring himself now to Proofs, might
have saved the trouble of this Court of Honour and Chivalrie and
hazzard of their Persons by Combate, which intends the Trial with∣out
proofs• And that the Defendant having ingaged his sureties,
but to this day, He humbly desires the time and place to be or∣dered
for the sudden Combate, according to the Law of Arms, and
custom of this Court; Saying, that the Duel foreseen, must en∣sue
upon the Appeal and Denial; and therefore ought now to be
granted.

Doctor Reeves* moved for continuance of the Replication, and
consented to the Combate; The Court admitted the Replication, and
ordered time till Wednesday for Exceptions thereto.

Doctor Duck* offered some reasons to satisfie Rey, and extreme∣ly
to censure Ramsey, where he was interrupted and told by the
E. Marshall, That the Court will save him the labour and councel,
till the Rejoynders be put in, and then to be Ordered.

Doctor Eden* shewed that the copies of the Letters Exhibited
Page 171
were not given out: Nor shall sayes the Earl Marshal, till the court
have considered of the contents, and so they were read.

The one was from Ramsey to Rey,* certifying him of passages in
the Low-Countreys since their parting to put the Marquesse in minde
of directing him, how to dispose of the Ammunition and Arms in his
custody; subscribed,

your servant, Ramsey.

The other from the Lord Marquesse, to the Lord Rey, congratula∣ting
his love and affection, expressing a great desire to meet him in
Germany, upon any terms he would propose. And that Ramsey the
Bearer, was instructed for him to Treat with the King of Swede,
whom he desires to favour and assist, which will oblige him his

friend and servant, Hamilton.

Doctor Duck* opened the whole matter, and each particular,
Insisting, That my Lord Reys evidence being for the King, and
he a person of Honour, and Peer of Scotland, his testimony was
sufficient.

And moves that Mr. Meldram might be admitted for supply, for
though they were not joynt witnesses together, of the words,
which made the charge; yet for as much that they were spoken as∣sunder,
and agreeing together, made up a full proof: That no te∣stimony
may be neglected in matters of Treason. That if any
part of the charge was denied by the Defendant, and proved by
the Appellant, it might convince him in a manner of the Whole:
And urged the offence of Ramseys challenging Rey. But more
of that hereafter.

But Doctor Reeves prosecuted the matter, for that Ramsey's*
Councel endeavoured to prove that he might decline the Combate,
or forbear answering, because of some words which reflected upon
my Lord Rey as matter of reproach, that Rey had uttered words of
Treason to catch Ramsey, and then to turn Informer. But (said he)
No office can be accounted base, when the King and Kingdoms
safety is concern'd; citing a story out of Livie, that the Romans
confederate with the Sanubies, were to undergo a base office that
stood not with Honour, and resolved, so long as it was advan∣tagious
to the Romane State, it might with Honour be under∣taken.

Doctor Eden* was earnest to excuse himself for putting in
these words against the Lord Rey, saying, that his Client enforced,
to have them inserted,

But being a point of Honour, the Earl Marshal iuterposed, That
Page 172
true it was, the best man may not refuse the basest office to preserve
a King and Nation; But again, it was most unworthy the degree of
honour, for any man to angle and intrap another, and then to present
him to that Kings Iustice.

Then the Pleaders argued concerning Meldrams Testimony,
That no proof ought to be omitted for the King; But it was of∣fered
for Ramsey* to joyn issue upon that point in Law; for the
Bill was laid against him not general, but particular, to Place, Time
and matter, viz. That in May last in a Ship, and afterward at Amster∣dam,
then again at Delph, Ramsey should say such and such words,
which if Meldram would justifie, besides himself, they ought to
be admitted, otherwise it was no good matter, but must refer to
a new Bill.

That the Defendant had answered fully, for that the Lord Rey
profered his service to the Marquesse without pressing to know
any designe. That nothing in the Letters could convict Ramsey.
That the Lord Rey standing upon his great offices under the King
of Swede, and so not necessitated to serve the Marquess, He had
not those places of command then, but since; and that since his
coming into England, he said that he would have served under
the Marquess, and concluded that Ramsey and the Marquess might
use such words, and yet not intend Treason to his Majesty.

But having in this Tryal medled so much with the Marquess,
the Court was fain to enter an order or Protection, to clear the Mar∣quess
his words or actions from dishonour.

Then the Court proceeded to Examine witnesses viva voce.

Archibal Raukin* was to prove the challenge as the Bringer,
upon these questions he confessed, That he was in Ramseys cham∣ber
at Richmond the last of October.

That Ramsey did not imploy him to carry any challenge to the
Lord Rey; But at that time Ramsey told him, that it was his grief
to be restrayned not to meet Rey, who was a Trayterous villain,
and wished to meet him in the open fields at Barn-Elms, he would
make him dye for it, and tear his heart, with other such words
of reproach, and wished this Deponent to tell Rey so much, which
he did, but it was three weeks after, and then, not until the Lord
Rey told him, that Ramsey had sent him a challenge; so that said
Ramsey, my Message was but a relation, not a challenge.

But Rauken was observed to falter from what he affirmed before
Dr. Reeves, and others, viz. to have carried the challenge, and that
Ramsey could not deny it; so that Rauken was threatned not to ac∣cuse
Ramsey.

Page 173Gilbert Seaton deposed, That Ramsey said, he had made it come
to Rey's ears, to have ended this businesse without troubling the
King or Lords.

Then Doctor Duck* summoned up all the proceedings, observing
that formerly in the presence of the King, Ramsey had with deep
protestations and oath denied the time, place, and matter which
he now confesseth, and though then not examined upon oath, yet
in France and other Countreys, the very holding up of the hand is
an oath, and so Tertullian sayes of the Romanes, and Ramsey con∣fessing
part, he might be guilty of the whole charge.

Doctor Eden said,* That Rey was not a competent witnesse a∣gainst
Ramsey, though for the King, for he was particeps criminis;
Capitalis Inimicus: for the first his Bill made him so; for it Ram∣sey
spake Treason, so did Rey; for the second, it appeared by Reys
violent prosecution, and if all failed, his sword must make it
good; and so the Defendant was not bound to answer, nor to
accept the challenge unlesse he will, to which he is so willing.

But Doctor Duck* said these Reasons did not currere quatuor pe∣dibus.
Some of the Conspirators with Cataline were revealers of
the Treason, and allowed as witnesses.

Doctor Reeves* concluded, that although some of the Lord Reys
witnesses did not affirm what they might, it would encourage him
to set a sharper edge upon his sword when he entered the Lists;
and that the God of right would so weaken the heart of Ramsey,
that it should fail him when he took his sword in hand.

The Holy-daies of Christmass drawing nigh,* The Court or∣dered,
that either party might repair to Sr. Henry Martin, and
possesse him with further proofs, out of these witnesses already
Examined, but of no other. And so adjourned the Court till
Monday the ninth of Ianuary, when after some small debates,
but no further Matter or Proofs, the businesse was briefly determi∣ned,
to be referred to the Kings pleasure.

Which came to this Account. That Hamiltons power with
the King got all favour for Ramsey; and well rewarded in due
time; And Rey having done the duty of a Loyal Subject, left
the Court and Kingdom, and returned to his Command in Swe∣den.
But this story, though tedious, will enlighten us further
to the truths of the Scotish affairs.

This Year increased Discontents in the Clergy at Oxford Uni∣versity;
Page 174
First many conceived that the renovations, reducing their
use of primitive times in Divine service, was now no lesse than
Innovation, against which, they bitterly Invected in their Pulpits
and Pasquils.* Their very texts giving just cause of offence and
mutiny, as Let us make us a Coptain, and return into Egypt. And
he cryed against the Altar in the word of the Lord,*and said, O Altar,
Altar,* and many such, reflecting upon the Persons of the most
Eminent in the Church, and violating the Kings Declaration for
depressing Arminian controversies, some of the offenders being
convented before their superiours the vice Chancellor, Appeal to
the Proctors: Bishop Laud mistaking these retrograde proceed∣ings,
in appeals from Ascendents to Descendents, caused the King at
Woodstock to order the difference, and censured the offenders to be
expelled the University; The Proctors deprived, and others parta∣kers
check't for engaging; But the Expulsion of these Preachers
Expelled not their Schism, which inwardly burnt the more for bla∣zing
the lesse, many complaining of the two edged sword of
justice, too penal for some to touch, then others to break the
Kings Declaration. And in this controversie died the Arch Bi∣shop
of York Dr. Harsnet, a discreet Assertor of these necessary
and useful Ceremonies, and complained even against the Con∣formable
Puritan, who preached it in policy, but diffented in judge∣ment.
His Epitaph sets forth his Bishopricks. Indignus Episco∣pus
Cicestrensis, Indignior Norvicensis & Indignissimus Archiepi∣scopus
Eboracensis, enjoying them all three.

And now they revive the Sabbatarian controversie, which was
begun five years since, 1628. Bradburn on the Sabbath day, and di∣rected
to the King, maintaining, First, The fourth Commandment
simply and intirely Moral, and Christians obliged as well as the Iews
to observe everlastingly that day. That the Lords day is an ordinary
working day, it being Will-worship, to make it a Sabbath by vertue
of the fourth Commandment. But the High Commission Court
soon made this man a Convert; which opinions begat contro∣versies
of five heads, What is the fittest name of that day? when
to begin and end? Upon what authority grounded? Whether alter∣able
or no? Whether any recreations, and what kinds on that day?
And then these disputants were distinguished into Sabbatarians,
Moderate men, and Anti-Sabbatarians, and their preaching and pam∣phlets
so quarrelous, as made the poor distracted people to seek
what to do.

And at the Temple It was Explained by Learned Dr. Mickle∣thwait,
That the richer fort, were more obliged to the strictnesse
of the day than the poor workman, such as have no diversion
by labour all the week, need no Recreation on One day, the La∣bourer
having some title to Liberty. But from the Pen, they fall
to Pikes, and Somersetshire the Stage and fie•y Scene; First, keep∣ing
Page 175
their Church-Ales and Wakes of meetings on that day evening,
which upon complaint to Richardson Chief Justice, that Circuit,
he suppressed them totally by Order of the nineteenth of March.
This being an usurpation of a Lay Judg on Ecclesiastical Jurisdi∣ction,
the Arch-bishop Laud procures from the King a Commission
to two Bishops and other Divines to examine the Judges carriage
therein; which Order at last he was fain to revoke the next Assize:
and so the quarrel on foot, and petition, troubling the King to settle
this difference, it procured reason of State in the King to revive his
Fathers Declaration for Sports, set out in the fifteenth of King
Iames, upon the like occasion in Lancashire, which refer to the sub∣sequent
time 1654. And indeed though the State was induced
with much prudence to afford some liberty to labouring people,
carving to some freedom on that day, cut most for others, and leave
least for themselves. The Declaration was not pressed on the Mi∣nister
to publish, more proper for a Lay Officer or Constable, but
because Judg Richardson had enjoyned his Order to the contrary,
and the Minister obeyed it. Now the Declaration was put upon
them also by the Order of the Bishops. Some Schismaticks were
forward to read it, and forthwith the fourth Commandment, set∣ting
(as they meant) God and the King at odds, that so themselves
might escape in the fray. Nor was the reading absolutely urged
upon any, unless under the Bishop of Norwich, too severe there.
Many men out of breath, observe this as the concurring cause of
our sad events and Civil War. 'Tis true, our fights were often
forced upon the King on that day, as pointing at the punishing of
profaneness; but our Battels have been rubrick'd each day in the
Week with English bloud: and therefore to pick a solemn Provi∣dence
out of a common Casualty, savours more of Curiosity than
Conscience: though indeed Edg-hill Fight fell on that day, which
entred us into so much misery. And truly, had we (all of us) strict∣and
duly observed the holy keeping that Holy Day, we might be
happy there still; I mean the due measure: but we have wrested it
awry from the right way, reeling into extremes, afterwards neglect∣ers,
now contemners, Transcendents above common piety, they
need not keep any, because they observe all days: we call them Le∣vellers,
equalling all Times, Places, Persons, nay to our Lands in
common; a general confusion they make to be Gospel perfection;
for having supprest all due observation of festival, Saints days, and
their Eves, Wednesdays and Fridays Service and Letanies; now our
Hypocrites out of errour, or worse, perfect pr•faness, take away the
Lords day also.

The famous Fabrick of Saint Pauls Church and Steeple, made
so in process of time from the p•ety of primitive Christians,* their
devout zeal to good works:* and since by several additions of Bene∣factoursPage 176
raised to a structure of admiration;* a Pile huge and ho∣nourable,
not the like left to our last Age to be sampled in the
whole World. What the hands of good men had made wonder∣full,
the hand of wasting had extremely decayed. Onely the hand
of Heaven by accident of Lightning had burnt down the high Spire,
in the time of Queen Elizabeth, who then had designed not onely
to rebuild that, but to repair the whole Church, and to that end
some Materials were then prepared.

Afterwards in the time of King Iames, the religious Patriot Sir
Paul Pindar* of worthy memory, returning into England some years
since, from his Ambassie, Lieger in Constantinople, and afterwards
one of the great Farmers of the Kings Customes, and of ample for∣tune,
the most in money, became the great Example of Charity to
many, and the Patern of Piety to all, in his magnificent re-edify∣fying
of this Church. First, he repaired the Entry front and Por∣ches
to all the upper Church Quire and Chancel, and enriched them
with Marble Structures and Figures of the Apostles, with Carvings
and Guildings far exceeding their former beauty, which cost above
two thousand pounds, the act of a good man, as King Iames said.
But the main Fabrick fit for the work of a King.

And therefore King Charls having a pious resolution to begin the
Repair of the whole Church and Steeple, made his humble entry at
the West end of the Isles up to the Body, Quire, and Chancel, where
after a Sermon of Exhortation to that Christian intention, he made
his pious Procession about the inside Circumvelation thereof; and
viewing the Decays gave up his promise with his Devotions,
speed•ly to settle the beginning of the work.

And this year issued out his Commissions under his Great Seal,
to the Lord Maior Sir Robert Drewry, the two Arch-bishops, the Chan∣cellour,
Treasurer, Privy Seal, some Bishops, Secretaries, and Councel∣lours
of State, Deans, Aldermen, and others, or any six of them,
whereof three to be of the Privy Council, and always the Bishop of
London for the time being to be one, who was then William Laud;
and the first man but not the chief Promoter, being promoved and
attempted by others before he was of note, yet indeed he became a
diligent and powerfull Actor therein, and the first Benefactour, who
gave a hundred pounds per annum, whilest he should be Bishop of
London; by whose pious endeavours and forward Example, and
sundry Contributions of good and godly men, and by Commis∣sions
of Protection for Breves and Collections in all Churches of Eng∣land
and Wales, there was gathered in time, the sum of fourscore
thousand pounds in all.

A large consideration was had to begin with the Steeple and Bo∣dy,
and so to descend to the Isles, presuming that when the Steeple
should be finished, the Contributions would necessarily invite the
compleating of the whole. But it was otherwise resolved and they
Page 177
began at the West end, and first the out-walls, which being clutter∣ed
with petty Tenements, even to the stopping of the Church-lights,
that clouded the beauty of the first Foundation; those
Houses by Lease or Rents were purchased and pulled down, and
the little Church called Saint Gregories builded up at the West end,
South of the Foundation, was willingly taken down to the ground,
and a very necessary place ordered for the erection of another
Church for that Parish.

And to this excellent good Work the fore remembred Sir Paul
Pindar, besides his former Expences, took upon him also at his own
proper cost and charge, (and did effect it before he died, to repair
or rather new build the great South Isle, far more beautifull than it
had been at the first e•ection, which 〈◊〉 him above seventeen
thousand pounds.

The Contribution-money was intrusted to the Chamber of Lon∣don,
(then supposed the safest Chest) from thence to be issued out
for Materials and Workmanship. The West end or Enterance was
finished more sumptuous and stately than at first. A gracefull state∣ly
Porch was raised, the whole breadth of the West end, upon Pillars
of Stone of the Ionick work supporting the Roof: on the top
whereof, in seemly distance, was erected the Figures and excellent
Postures of King Iames and King Charls, mounted on Pedestals,
leaving room aud spaces for other succeeding Sovereigns. Then
they had new cased the whole intire out-walls more nobly, to the
Roof; with large Figures of Pomegranates set upon Pedestals at
equal distances, to grace the Roof, which was all overlaid with
Lead. The Windows with admirable painted Glass of Figures of
the Fathers, Prophets, and Apostles, with several historical pieces of
Scripture. Then they had vaulted the Roofs with massie Sup∣porters
of Timber, and Scaffolds raised for re-edifying and beauti∣fying
the Roof. Lastly, they had raised outward Scaffolding from
the body of the Church, to the very top of the Steeple, and were
going on with the Spire; and some Moneys in stock towards the
finishing of all, which most Artisans supposed might be finished for
forty thousand pounds.

When on the sudden, William Laud late Arch-bishop of Canterbu∣ry,
was impeached by the late House of Commons in their long Par∣liament,
and our Civil uncivil Dissentions, seized the whole stock of
Money, and so the Work ceased. The Church forthwith turned
into a Prison or Goal of Malignants, then into a Garrison of Foot-sol∣diers,
then into a Stable of unclean Beasts, and then to the sale of all
Materials, Stone, Lead, Glass, Iron, and last of all the very Scaffolding of
Timber, which cost forty thousand pounds, sold for six thousand, the
Money never paid, the end and ruine of that most glorious and
Christian Design.

After-ages may conceive this final and horrid ruine to be the
Page 178
effects of a cruel War, which devastates all. But at the beginning
of this Design of Repair; it is most true, [that many had no fancy
thereto] the whole gang of Presbyterians utterly disliked of it.

And when the Earl of Holland,*Chancellour of the University of
Cambridg, was commanded by the King to write his Letters to that
University for Contributions of the Heads, Fellows, and Students, a
wonder it was what plots and devices of some (afterwards busie-bo∣dies
in Parliament) for a time, obstructed those Letters, and other
pious intentions of sundry Contributions, and were the onely causers
of that desolation, and earnestly urged the ruine to all Cathedrals, as
it is well observed, that Doctor Bastwick (whom he examples for
one, and a known Schismatick) grudging at the great expence in the
Repair,* observes his base and irreverend expression, alluding to the
name Cathedral; That all the mighty mass of money must be spent in
making a Seat for a Priest's Arse to sit in. See Bastwick's second Part
of his Letany.

But as that repaired, London Bridg burned* (the North-part) to
the first open distance, which secured the rest; an ugly, patcht, un∣formed
Building it was: part of the ruine is since repaired, a hand∣some
well-piled Patern for rebuilding all the rest.

The King took the infection of the Small Pox,* to the great grief
of the Subjects in general, and because many had suffered extreme∣ly
in that Sickness, the Pulpits, Prayers, and private Devotions of all
good and well-affected People, were frequently offered to the Di∣vine
Majesty, who in mercy soon restored him to health again, with∣out
any marks or blemish, of usual Spots to others in the like Sick∣ness.

The military affairs of Europe were now come to the miserable
effects of a cruel War on all sides,* we shall enter the story of the
the Eastern part. Sigismund King of Poland and Swethland, the
Bulwark of Christendom against the Turks tyranny, had been here∣tofore
enforced to sue for succour of neighbour Princes by several
Embassies; of King Iames by Ossolinsky Count Palatine of Sendo∣meria,
who so well performed his eloquent Oration, and excellent
behaviour, that he procured from hence two thousand men and
money, Voluntiers for the Guards of that Kings Person.

This Count was initiated a Civilian, bred up in Court to become
Chancellour, and now a Commander in this War: certainly a man
of singular merit, and to boot very handsome, and of most obli∣ging
demeanor, which took with the King and all our Court, of
high concernment, to chuse a Person proper for his Arrand.

And because the Quarrel came to mighty execution of both
parties, I may not omit the occasion so much concerning those mi∣serable
neighbour Nations bordering the Turks Dominions, special∣ly
the Pole, who (it seemed) in those days deserved better of all
Princes, than to be worried out of his own Inheritance, by a ChristianPage 179
now of late 1655▪ more cruel now than the Turk was then. And
so by this entrance we shall bring the brief History to our time.

Mah•met the Authour of their Alcoran enjoyned the Race of
Othomans, two special things: To propagate the Empire by some
mighty Attempts of War. The other, to glorifie their Religion
by some wondrous Action in Peace, or stupendous Structure of
Amazement to the World.

For the first; Their Ter•itories extend to the Asian and Afri∣can
shores, from Trebizond the bottome of the Black-sea, to Argier,
neighbouring the Straits of Gibralter, 6000. English miles besides
the possession of Greece and her Islands, with his intrusion into
Hungary. And have Auxiliary friendsh•• of the Great Tartar-Chrim:
from whose Ancestors Tamberla•• proceeded▪ who though
himself the Turks Scourg, yet of late the Tartar takes Affinity from
the fi•st Scythian Othoman. And if the direct Line faile, He challeng∣eth
the Proximity of succession; for which purpose, he keeps cor∣respondence
with the Grand Signieur, Assisting him some time with
one hundred thousand Tartars; By whose and his own multitudes
he hath prevailed against Iews and Christians, possessing Ierusalem
in Asia; Grand-Cair in Africa, and Constantinople in Europe.

And for the second; Their admired Mosques (Churches) of
oftentation, works of charity and observant Holiness (ad pios
usus) demonstrate not only their opinion of a Deity, but their obe∣dience
also to their Mahumetan constitutions▪ imploying their time
and wealth to merit the more of the joyes of Paradise, as they
augment their Piety upon Earth. So it seems by that wonderful
History of Soliman the magnificent, and the faire Roxellana contri∣ving
her manumission, and obtaining to be overprest under a dissi∣muled
Sanctity of erecting a Mosque in honour of that Prophet.* The
principal Mufty (Churchmen) which the doctors of their Alcoran
have greater access to the Emperour then either the Visier or the
Bashawes. And is more awed by them, than by the Revolts or Mu∣tinies
of the tumultuary Ianizaries; by whom alone the Atlas of his
Monarchy is maintained secure, from any daring attempts to dis∣joynt
that frame.

But the occasion of the Polish war* was thus, whilst Sr. Thomas
Glover was Embassador at Constantinople, one Iasparo Gratiano a
mean Man his Drogoman (or Interpreter) born in Austria, and the
Emperours Subject; and heretofore servant to the Prince of Molda∣via,
dispossessed of his Inheritance by contrivement. Both of them,
became Imprisoned in the Black-Tower, for complayning against the
Visier, who took part with the Princes Competitour, but both of
them escaped out of Prison, and became suiters to most of the
Christian Princes; and here in England, and had relief of Ten thou∣sand
Dollars by credit of our Merchants, and so made his great
Virtue Umbragious with the Malignity of tyme, and covertly got
Page 180〈1 page〉Page 181
winding up on the wheel of destiny. Remember the Othoman
glory: Let it be thy virtue to be thankful, and my fortune to im∣part
this grace and benefit to a worthy Person. Instantly sends for
the Visier and Bashaws, adjuring them to the Ratification of this
his will and pleasure though he had children; and so dyed a short
time after.

Mustapha* is forthwith advanced to the Diadem; in which he en∣joyed
a while undisturbed, untill Scander-Bashaw perceiving his own
power in some 〈◊〉, under this gallant Prince, plot• his de∣signes
to be Visier, to depose Mustapha, and so to set up the son of
Achmate, specially the lovely Osman of Nine years old, and asks
him, if he be not the Eldest son of his father, disputes with the
Bashaws their two hasty Enthroning of Mustapha,* confers with the
Visier and principal Mufty, to dispose the other, and set up Osman
giving a Largess to the Ianizaries sends for divers Casawcks and
Tymorites, and all things prepared brings forth Osman, and presents
him to the people; with wonderful applause they invest him in the
Robes and proclaim him Emperour, Imp•ison Mustapha with a Guard
of Capowches and instantly proposes the war against Polonia, and
Remembers them all of the charge of Achmate, to Revenge their
Darings to defend Moldavia and the house of Austria, for the
Emperours of Germany, Rodulphus and Matthias being dead; the
Princes of Germany, banding against the peace of Europe, would
be an occasion to advance their design, and so the war was deter∣mined
and Osman to go in person.

But first let us story out the state of Poland.* About the year
1609. One Stephen, living then with the Visier at Constantinople,
pretended right to the Principality of Moldavia, and either by
favour, or bribes (seldome a sunder) had asistance of Twenty thou∣sand
Turks, whereby he prevailed against the sons of the late Prince
of Moldavia, whom they barbarously murthred and slew their
Uncle Simeon. And because the sons of Ierzay were reputed
Bastards, the King of Poland by contract with the Turk, had the
naming of a successor, and Elected Constantine the younger son to
the Vadvod, which so displeased Mahomet Bashaw, designed to recti∣fie
their disorders, that he slew Constrantine and set up another of his
own faction, which indignity to the Pole caused that King to assist
the distressed People.

These wars lasted, till Sigis•und King of Sweden was elected King
of Poland; a warlike Prince against the Moscovites, and a continual
friend to the Moldavians. So that about the year 1618. the time of
the Blazing Comet in the Heavens, Osman mustred up a wonderous
Army of Tartars, the naturall Enemies of Europe. To them, were
united the Countries of Dacia, Servia, Belgaria, Illyria, Thracia,
Epirus and the Tributary Provinces of Christians themselves, forced
thereto in fear of more slavery.

Page 182They marcht to the fields of Dacia and Belgaria, where the Po∣lacks
with some assistance of the Russe, Encounter them, and with the
fortune of Noble Sigismund and his excellent son, in all their battels
to have the victoryes.

And in 1620. gave the Tartars and Turks an overthrow, as they
transported their Army over the River, that their numerous Bodies
stopped the very stream, and twenty thousand slain at three Encoun∣ters;
which so inraged Osman, that he resolves in Person, with an
Invincible Host. The first year he was Intercepted by Plague in his
Army. The next year a Terrible Earthquake at Constantinople shook
the ground, overturning tops of houses and many Mosques, ama∣zing
the Multitude with some other several mischances to the Per∣son
of Osman which retarded his speed.

But resolved it was with threatned Protestations, and Vows, and
Invocation to Mahomet, first to send Scander Basha his Fore-runner,
with an Army of two hundred thousand into Bogdania.

Sigismund soresees this Storm in earnest, acquaints the Princes of
Europe by Embassies, to the Emperour at Vienna by way of Inter∣cession
of a Peace between him and Bethlem Gabor, and to other
Princes, in great discord with the Empire. And so other Ambassa∣dours
also, to other Nations, and Ossolinsky into England.

But after that the right noble Sigismund in four several Encoun∣ters
had bravely defeated forty thousand Enemies, and sundry Tri∣umphs
had passed in honour of his glorious Victories: the Polonians
over presumptuous in their last Battel of Bogdonia, disranked them∣selves,
over secure, giving occasion and courage to the Ianizaries
and Caphies to rally the Tartars, with fresh Numbers, that enforced
the Polonians to give ground, and the Enemy advantage of their
Retreat, and totally to rout as far as Poldavia, with the fearfull exe∣cution
of thirty thousand, besides cruelty, Murders, Rapines, barba∣rously
inhumane.

And thus stood the State of Poland in the last time of King
Iames; and now let us see their Proceedings at this time.

Uladislaus the fourth King of Poland,* was after the death of his
brother Sigismund, by consent of the States preferred to the Throne,
and a fair occasion was offered, to signalize his Inauguration,
and to be the terrour of his enemy the Muscovite, who having
done much spoyl in Lituania, besieged the Polish Town of Smo∣lensko.
The War was high, and either party endeavour their
succour: Both of them in this quarrel indifferent to Great Brit∣tanes
Interest, unlesse the Scots will afford the Pole their favour,
for countenancing their pedling trade of Land Merchandizing,
from Fair to Fairs. And indeed they have reception there also
for such of them as have been souldiers of fortune. But the
English upon a double account have increased their Naval trade
Page 183
to the Muscovite, and our Merchants thereby inriched into an
Incorporate Company, setled in the time of Queen Elizabeth;
and so that great Duke (or Emperour) solicits King Charles for
Assistance in his intended War, and siege of Smolensko, where
because the English and Scots both, had entertainment on either
side, they shall not want a Remembrancer.

The King of Swede at his first descending into Germany, foment∣ed
this quarrel, willing he was to engage Poland, and all our neigh∣bour
Princes and States in any War, the better to prevent their
assistance to the Emperour, countenancing and en••uraging di∣vers
of his own Officers, strangers, to take pay on either side.
The Muscovite sends abroad his Ambassadours for aid, with par∣ticular
Letters to King Charles, for Men and Officers; who re∣commended
Colonel Thomas Sanderson, which for a compleat
double Regiment of two thousand English,* by the North Cape, the
first that ever transported Military men to that Nation, by sea,
to the Town of Arch Angel, the North part and Port to the
Musco, and the place where all Merchants strangers keep their
Sta•le. There they land the sixth of August, 1632, Commissi∣oners
are appointed to receive them, upon such conditions, as
never were more noble for Souldiers, the Colonels own single
pay, near 200 l. sterling a Moneth. And being received and
Carressed at Musco, the whole Army march to Smolensko, a strong
Town in the borders of Poland, formerly taken by Sigismund
from the Muscovite, with a two years siege, like that of Ostend,
in Flanders, if we consider the length of the siege, and the num∣ber
of the slain, which amounted (as Authours reckon) to more
than twenty thousand men; and now was the Muscovite resol∣ved
to bid fair for the Game, with an Hoast of fifteen hundred
thousand Souldiers: And being come, after some Skirmishes,
the King of Poland in person, draws down his whole Army thi∣ther
to besiege the Besiegers. Entrenching himself, which was
all he could do for the present, against such a powerful Army,
of 120 thousand, and so by degrees he cuts off all provisions,
which put the Musco General to quicken the siege, and to make
several attempts upon the strong Town. And at last, having
summoned his Councel of War, And amongst them of several
Nations, Colonel Sanderson, Colonel Alexander Lesly a Scot, dif∣fering
in opinions, fell to quarrel; which the General opposed,
saying, These that will not fight the Enemy, let them keep their
own quarters; But gave command to countenance Colonel San∣derson
with 3000 Foot to fall upon the Polish quarters, weakened
by drawing off their choisest Horse and Foot to Dorogobuse, to
prevent their Muscovite provision of relief; and the General pri∣vately
took Sanderson crosse the River, to get a secret view for
the best advantage of the designe, When suddenly an AlarmPage 184
came to the General, who commanded Sanderson with speed, to
his quarters, who passing by the brow of an Hill where Lesly
drew out into Order, and seeing Sanderson without any guard,
with a dozen of Horse, followed him that took no heed of a∣ny
Treason, but minding his enemy before his face: Lesly came
close behinde him, and with a brace of bullets, shot him by the
nape of the neck, into the head, stark dead, the second day of
December 1633.

Upon which Murther, the English drew into a Body, with re∣solution
of revenge upon Lesly and his Scots, but for the instant
were both commanded into a truce with great protestation, that
the Murtherer should be subject to severe punishment, and so
submitted him to a Guard, of which the enemy having know∣ledge,
takes the advantage, falls upon the Muscovite, and in this
disorder, put them to a great losse, and kills six thousand, en∣forcing
them to a Parly, and to these base unheard-of conditi∣ons:
That an Army of an hundred and twenty thousand should
cast their Arms and Colours at the feet of this King, a Monster of
Victory: He pardons them all, the strangers near fourteen thou∣sand
are never to bear Arms against the Crown of Poland, and
all Arms and Ammunition, submitted to the Conquerour. And
not long after the general peace was ratified between them. That
the King of Poland should relinquish his Title and pretensions upon
the great Duchy of Musco, and the grand Duke his, upon Smolensko,
and other such places formerly depending on the Muscovite.

These dishonourable conditions, fell heavily upon the Gene∣ral,
who was at his return home, soon-beheaded, His Son the
Lievetenant General whipt to death about the streets, and his fa∣mily
banished for ever into the Countrey of Ibera, there to catch
Sables for the Emperours profit, a customary punishment of such,
as have relation and dependance upon Traitours.

Nay, the King of Swede had called in the Turk, who to besiege
Poland, was entred into the Countrey; but the King had time∣ly
gotten this Victory, to put fire in the Turks tails, beating them
out again, and forcing them also to beg a peace upon most ho∣nourable
terms for the King, at that same time, when the third
part of Constantinople was burnt to the ground, with incredible
losse, a Prodigie threatning the Turk with that misfortune, which
afterward befel him.

The Murtherer Lesly, after some time of imprisonment, with
great summes of money wrought his release there, and to be sent
Prisoner to the justice of King Charles, whose subject he was.
Here he was cast into prison, and suffered under the trial onely
of the High Court of Honour, where, being arraigned, he produ∣ced
the Kings pardon, who was pleased thus to excuse, and that
truly. That being the Murther was committed in a foreign Na∣tion,
Page 185
the Laws of England could not reach to punish with death,
which said, the King having passed a formal Tryal, may give cauti∣on
to his Subjects not to execute the like; The pardon being one∣ly
to shadow from publick knowledge, the weakness of our Laws
against such foreign Offenders. But the Hand of Heaven pro∣secuted
this Murther; for He wandring in foreign Wars, came
over hither again, with some command in the Queens forces, which
She brought over from Holland, for assistance of the King in the
late Civil War; where, upon his first service, he was 〈◊〉 and
maimed in his Murtherous hand: Then he returns into Muscovia,
where, but for suspicion of Treachery, he was imprisoned in a
Tower, and from the top, was flung 〈◊〉 sharp stakes, and
lingred out a reasonable time of execut•••〈◊〉 he wretchedly
died.